There are various communication styles utilised in healthcare during client interactions. Occupational therapists must communicate effectively (Richardson, 2009), which may involve adapting their approach to ensure it is appropriate to the client. By presenting adequate body language complementing their verbal cues including: maintaining eye contact, an open and relaxed posture and all encompassing gestures (Dickson & Burton, 2011), the communication will be optimised. Studies have indicated that clinicians, who are aware of their body language, communicate more effectively, promoting optimal health (Ennis, Happell, Broadbent, & Reid-Searl, 2013). This evidence indicates the significance of ensuring verbalised and non-verbalised behaviours supplementing one another to convey the intended message accurately.
An example of a communication tool an occupation therapist would use to direct client.