Guidelines to patient counselling; There are 2 important factors in doing patient counselling.

(1) Communication which is defined as the transfer of information meaningful to those involved. (2) Listening is an ability which effectively enhances the communication process. The communication process between health professionals and patients serves two primary functions. First, to establish an on-going relationship between the professional and the patient. Second, to provide the exchange of information necessary to assess a patients health condition, implement treatment of medical problems, and evaluate the effects of treatment on a patients quality of life. Listening techniques for the patient interview process. One of these is to stop talking. You cant listen while you are talking. Next, get rid of distractions. Next, use eye contact to show you are listening. Next, react to ideas rather than the person. Next, read nonverbal messages. Lastly, provide feedback to clarify the message. This shows that you listen and are trying to understand. http://www.cuhk.edu.hk/med/ans/Good%20Communication.pdf