Self-Disclosure
What is self-disclosure? Self-disclosure is a process of communication in which one person reveals information to another. It can be used in many ways, but in this instance, we will be talking specifically about self-disclosure with therapy practices and mental health professionals. Types of self-disclosure Accidental - unplanned encounters outside of the counseling session Unavoidable - client revelations about a therapist through obvious distinguishing characteristics like someone’s race, jewelry, and haircut. Client-initiated - when a client seeks and finds information about their counselor online, through biographies, awards, family history, etc. Deliberate - purposeful self-disclosure with a client Benefits Builds rapport with clients Reduce client’s uneasy feeling of sharing by counselor sharing Conveys empathy to clients and shows them they’re not alone Can “humanize” the counselor to clients Risks Shift...