Assignment task: A counsellor, Imelda, and her client, Max, are talking about his experiences as a child in boarding school. Imelda notices that Max is becoming increasingly withdrawn and giving monosyllabic answers. He seems tense and is avoiding making eye contact with her and she senses that this had been a really difficult, traumatic time for him. Imelda immediately changes the subject and asks Max what films he has seen lately.
a) What non-verbal cues might indicate that Max is experiencing a strong emotional reaction? (Your response should be approximately 30 words)
b) Briefly describe Imelda's key responsibility, given that strong emotions have arisen in session, and the skills that she should use in responding to Max. (Your response should be approximately 50 words)
c) Is it always necessary and helpful for clients to talk about the emotions that arise in counselling sessions? Why or why not? (Your response should be approximately 30 words)
d) What could Imelda say to indicate to Max that she is attending to his communication and seeking to understand what is happening? (Your response should be approximately 50 words)
e) What would you recommend that Imelda do if Max indicates that he does not want to talk about his experience at boarding school and how he feels about it? (Your response should be approximately 50 words)