Change talk: developing a therapeutic relationship with your patients

02 December 2022
Volume 11 · Issue 10

Abstract

Building trust and a relationship with patients is the foundation for loyalty, which leads to repeat bookings and recommendations. In this article, Jason Ratcliffe discusses how to break the ice and get a conversation started with your patients. In some cases, understanding motivational interviewing techniques can help practitioners to guide patients to develop their strategies themselves to deal with problems they may discuss with in confidence

For many patients, an aesthetic clinic is a special place to feel pampered and have a one-on-one chat about holidays, fashion, work or even relationship issues. In most cases, they will be a light-hearted conversation on several well-worn topics. In some cases, when a trusting relationship has been established, it can be beneficial to have a basic understanding of motivational interviewing techniques. This will help patients gain clarity on an issue they raise, enabling them to come up with a potential solution, and lets a clinic be where both practitioner and patient leave feeling pampered and focused.

The most important factor is to have a light conversation with your patient that makes them comfortable and valued, as opposed to a bland mention about the weather or an uncomfortable silence. Below are some examples of good conversation starters:

» If they do want to move forward, suggest that they write down the advantages and disadvantages of making the change now that they have aired the problem. This is a good way of helping the patient without losing your neutrality with them «

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Journal of Aesthetic Nurses and reading some of our peer-reviewed resources for aesthetic nurses. To read more, please register today. You’ll enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Limited access to clinical or professional articles

  • New content and clinical newsletter updates each month