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From: Jenny Rich, University of Memphis
Date: 18 Oct 2004
Time: 12:23:15 -0500
Remote Name: 68.62.197.162
I enjoyed reading your paper—especially concerning the active process of authentic listening. As a woman in today's advice-giving society, the art of listening seems to be minimized and the act of problem-solving is highlighted. This is particularly evident in the media (through popular talk shows and self-help books) and in how we communicate outside of the therapy room with our family and friends. I believe that as clinician/counselors, we would really benefit from taking an active step to focus and practice our listening habits. Instead of asking leading questions to get the information we need for an assessment, paraphrasing what the parent says and encouraging further discussion may be one way of demonstrating that we actually care and understand what they say. Motivating families toward discovery of what is best for their situation may be the most appropriate method for encouraging change. It seems like the parent would be more willing to change if they've thought of the solution rather than being told what to do. I was intrigued with the concept of parent groups. Parental involvement is vital, especially for encouraging children who stutter. However, how would this best be facilitated in the schools where parental contact is limited and time is typically rushed? After school hours or during the day sometime? Your thoughts?