Are you Surrounded by Jargon-aholics?

First Published 5 September

This month in Therapists in Conversation we talk about going beyond the psychobabble.   You know, that jargon and mumbo jumbo that some ‘experts’ like to use either because they aren’t aware they are using it or, because they want feel in control/charge?

We delve into why people use it and the dangers that can come from it, and also the benefits of keeping it simple and understandable to all.  When we communicate in a way that all can understand, we reduce the likelihood for miscommunication and the pain that can come from it.

Tune in and let me know what you think.

So, how do you find the right therapist for you? 

(hopefully, the fact you are here means you are drawn to working with me or at the very least, enjoy my weekly waffle!  However, as I advocate for people to work with a therapist that they feel is right for them, you may feel that in certain situations you might want to work with someone else – so here are a few things to look out for!)

Effective communication is key to building a trusting therapeutic relationship and facilitating meaningful change, so make sure whoever you choose to work with, allows you to feel understood and listened to while at the same time, you understand what they are saying.

If they are a fan of Psychobabble, there are some pitfalls

• Alienation: Overusing jargon can make you feel excluded and misunderstood.
• Lack of Understanding: Complex terms can hinder your ability to understand and apply any suggestions or take on board any actions they may set.
• Reduced Trust: you may find yourself questioning a therapist’s credibility if they use overly technical language that keeps you in a state of confusion.

Meanwhile, Clear Communication allows for:

• Building Rapport: You want to feel a sense of connection and trust between the therapist and yourself.
• Enhanced Understanding: Using simple, everyday language helps you to grasp any concepts the therapist shares with you more easily.
• Increased Engagement: When you feel understood and supported, you are more likely to be actively engaged in the process – remember, healing is not a spectator sport so there is an incentive to stay engaged and in charge of your therapy and your journey.

What to look for in Effective Communication in Therapy – do they:

• Avoid jargon: do they use plain language that you can easily understand, rather than using jargon that confuses you?
• Ask open-ended questions: Do you feel encouraged to share your thoughts and feelings in your own words? 
• Paraphrase and summarise: Do they reflect back what you have said and confirm that they understand you?
• Use metaphors and analogies: Simple explanations can often be more impactful than complex terminology, are they able to explain the complex through the use of analogies?
• Remain patient and empathetic: Do you feel safe, have they created a safe and supportive environment where you feel comfortable expressing yourself?

Remember, their goal should be to build a strong therapeutic relationship, not to impress you with their vocabulary and complex concepts (that took them many years of study for them to grasp).  If your therapist focuses on understanding and connection, you can achieve lasting transformation with their support. If you would like an introduction to anyone on the panel, please do let me know, alternatively, you can always continue to work with me 😉