Microanalysis of Face to Face Communication: The Effects of Language, Postural Mirroring and Counsellor Standard Position on Joining in Therapy

Abstract

This study examined the therapist’s influence on a positive outcome of therapy. The examination included conversational analysis, discourse analysis, client positive emotions, postural mirroring, counsellor standard position, and language, counsellor standard position, and postural mirroring. A microanalysis of face to face communication found that, in general, these methods contribute to client positive moments, and that language was the most frequently used approach. Counsellor standard position was sometimes used, and postural mirroring was very seldom used. The implications of this study for future research in this area for counsellor training are discussed.