What is Rapport?

         “Rapport is the feeling of harmony and confidence that should exist between patient and clinician,” states The First Interview (p. 25). Harmony is important in a relationship because it shows that the two people are in agreement. Perhaps, they have the same goal or want the same outcome. In the therapeutic sense, the client is there because they have a need and the therapist is there to fill that need: with knowledge, wisdom, and skills. The therapist will help the client find their confidence or give the client confidence, an understanding that they are able to or will be able to manage a course of therapy. As the client moves through therapy their trust will deepen in their counselor and they will open up.

            Positive, or good, rapport will help the client share information. At first, it might be basic information, but eventually it should lead to important personal information. A therapists “Demeanor” will play a role in how quickly that rapport is built. The therapist needs to pay attention to what they say, how they say it, and what their body is saying. If possible the therapist should try to relate to the “patients language” without portraying any type of disrespect. The client will pick up on the therapist’s demeanor and this will affect the client’s openness (p.25-30).

For instance, if the therapist is trying to speak to the client about a disorder or treatment it would be wise to explain it in a way the patient could understand. Saying, “I am sending you to DBT group, because you have Borderline Personality disorder,” will likely confuse the client. But, by explaining that there is a group, what it is, what they do, and why it would benefit the patient would be a good idea.

By explaining what symptoms are, and what the symptoms mean it helps the client to see that the therapist is knowledgeable – showing their “Expertise” (p.34).

References

 Morrison, J., (2008). The First Interview. (3^rd Ed.). New York, NY: Guilford Press.