Style of Speech: Everyone has a unique style of speech. Notice how long a client takes to respond to your comments, the speed of their speech and their willingness to interrupt or be interrupted. Pay attention to your own patterns and work to match their style as much as possible.

Eye Contact: Some clients are not comfortable making eye contact. Try sitting next to a client rather than across from them and don’t force eye contact.

Use of Touch and Space: Allow your client to establish their comfort with physical distance and touching. Ask permission before touching or moving close to a client.

Addressing your client: Ask how a client and their family members would like to be addressed and tell them how you would like to be addressed.

Pausing: Provide moments of silence, to give a client time to absorb new information.