Objective:

To introduce clients to the counseling process, establish rapport, and outline the techniques that will be used in their sessions.

Duration: 15 Minutes

0:00 - 2:00 | Welcome and Introduction

• Greet the clients warmly and thank them for choosing your services.
• Briefly introduce yourself, including your qualifications and experience in relationship counseling.
• Set the tone for the call by emphasizing that this is a safe, non-judgmental space.

2:00 - 5:00 | Understanding the Clients' Concerns

• Ask the clients to share, in broad terms, the challenges they are currently facing in their relationship.
• Listen actively, acknowledging their concerns without interrupting. This is the first step in building trust and rapport.
• Take note of key issues that may need to be addressed in future sessions.

5:00 - 8:00 | Introduction to Counseling Techniques

• Briefly explain the counseling approaches you’ll be using, such as:
  • Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): Focuses on identifying and restructuring negative interaction patterns, fostering a secure emotional connection oai_citation:6,Empowering Relationships: Effective Couples Counseling Techniques - Quenza oai_citation:5,Rebuilding Couples' Communication With Emotionally Focused Therapy | Psychology Today.
  • Gottman Method: Enhances relationship dynamics by focusing on improving communication skills, managing conflict, and building emotional intimacy oai_citation:4,Empowering Relationships: Effective Couples Counseling Techniques - Quenza oai_citation:3,Rebuilding Couples' Communication With Emotionally Focused Therapy | Psychology Today.
  • Active Listening and Non-Verbal Communication: Techniques to ensure both partners feel heard and understood oai_citation:2,3 Critical Relationship Communication Skills for Couples.

8:00 - 10:00 | What to Expect in Sessions

• Describe the structure of a typical session, highlighting the collaborative nature of the process.
• Explain the importance of homework assignments, such as practicing active listening or maintaining a "love map" as used in the Gottman Method oai_citation:1,Empowering Relationships: Effective Couples Counseling Techniques - Quenza.
• Reassure the clients that progress is a journey, and setbacks are normal and part of the growth process.

10:00 - 12:00 | Client Questions and Concerns

• Invite the clients to ask any questions they may have about the process, techniques, or anything else on their mind.