Therapeutic Communication Overview

Therapeutic communication is at the foundation of the MRT-client relationship as reflected in the figure below. It is different than the conversations you have with friends, peers, family, and colleagues. Therapeutic communication has a specific purpose within the healthcare context. It is intended to develop an effective interpersonal MRT-client relationship that supports the client’s wellbeing and ensures holistic, client-centred, quality care.

Figure: Therapeutic relationship.

The word “therapeutic” is related to the word therapy: it means having a restorative and healing effect on the mind and body as well as doing no harm. It is important to consider how you communicate and how this affects the client.