To help your client open up, create an environment of trust by demonstrating patience and empathy. Begin by asking open-ended, non-threatening questions that allow them to guide the conversation. Show genuine interest in their well-being by actively listening and reflecting their emotions, creating a sense of safety. Adapt your communication style to match their comfort level, reducing any pressure. Use positive body language and maintain eye contact to encourage openness. Gently share your own experiences or perspectives to bridge the gap, but keep the focus on them. Finally, allow pauses—silence can give them the space they need to open up naturally.

It's common for clients to be hesitant to share their concerns, and even we face similar challenges. There are various reasons for this, such as childhood experiences, cultural upbringing, parenting styles, abuse, addiction, and bad habits, all of which can decrease self-confidence. To foster a culture of comfortable sharing, start by understanding their personality and building rapport. Then, use tools like open communication, active listening, and creating a non-judgmental, supportive environment. Encourage interaction through eye contact, smiles, and body language that shows empathy and understanding. This helps build trust, making it easier for them to open up and express their emotions.

Setting the context is crucial early on. Creating a safe space, calm space, inclusive space, open space and CONNECTED space. Being interested, curious and compassionate towards our clients is KEY. Clients need to know that they can trust and that they matter. Clients also need to feel safe in order to express their thoughts, feelings, opinions, concerns……open communication……is IMPORTANT!

When I notice hesitation in my client's tone, I adjust my approach. I gently point out the shift in energy or hesitation and invite them to share their thoughts. I make it clear this is a safe, judgment-free space and that I value their feedback. This openness often leads to more honest discussions and better outcomes.

One method I have found that works with some clients who are not comfortable opening up and sharing is to not make them feel isolated in the problems and challenges they might be facing. So to start with sharing what you have been through and some of the challenges faced makes them feel that it is OK to have challenges, it is OK to have failed. Sharing your own life experiences makes the client feel more connected with you. While doing this though, we should be careful not to make the conversation about us and still keep the discussion focussed on the client.