Emotionally Focused Couple

Emotionally Focused Couple
















Emotionally Focused Couples Paper

Jamie Chessor

University of Phoenix

August 10, 2015

Barbara Hughson






















Emotionally Focused Couples Paper

The video Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy is a demonstration of a counselor interviewing a couple having difficulties with communication (University of Phoenix, 2009). Susan Johnson interviews Josh and Patty about the difficulties of trust and openness within their relationship. The counselor exhibits nonverbal and verbal skills, summarizing information, information-giving responses, interviewing stages, and self-disclosure methods. The interviewing structure is explored and evaluated.
Nonverbal and Verbal Communication
Susan Johnson uses nonverbal and verbal communication to communicate with the client’s Josh and Patty. Nonverbal communication is maintaining eye contact, gestures, facial expressions, and body posture (Evans, Hearn, Uhlemann, & Ivey, 2011). Susan is seated across from the couple and maintains an open posture and learns forward most of the interview. Occasionally, at critical points in the interview, Susan reaches down and places her hand on Patty’s knee. Susan maintains attentive nonverbal communication throughout the interview.
Susan uses verbal communication skills such as tone, focus, and moves at the right pace (Evans, Hearn, Uhlemann, & Ivey, 2011). Susan uses the appropriate tone when discussing their situation, she is comforting, and uses appropriate humor, and warm. Josh and Patty clearly had Susan’s focus the entire interview; this was evident by Susan’s attentiveness, mannerisms, and communication methods.
Effective Questioning and Comments
Susan encourages Josh and Patty throughout the entire interview. To Josh, Susan says, “That's pretty amazing that you can do that.” When that statement is said, Josh seems encouraged to continue discussing what he has done and explain how he feels. To...

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