Purpose 🎯
Help clients identify how they communicate most effectively and what makes communication easier or harder.
Let’s Talk About It 🗣️
Complete the following prompts:
- I understand best when…
- I communicate best when…
- I need extra time when…
- I prefer direct communication about…
- I find it difficult when people…
- When I am overwhelmed, communication may look like…
- A helpful way to support me is…
Ask:
- Which communication preferences would you like other people to understand better?
- What makes conversations easier for you?
- What makes it harder to express what you need?
If the Conversation Gets Stuck 💡
- Do you prefer spoken, written, visual, or example-based information?
- What helps you process information at your own pace?
- What do people misunderstand about your communication?
Telehealth / Whiteboard Version ⚖️
Create a communication profile template and complete each prompt together. Use examples from school, work, home, or relationships.
Why This Works 🌱
Communication preference mapping helps clients advocate for supports and reduces misunderstanding by making needs more visible and specific.
Clinical Pearl 🧠
Avoid framing communication differences as deficits. Focus on what helps the client understand, express, process, and participate effectively.
Documentation Language 📝
Therapist utilized a communication preference intervention to support client in identifying communication strengths, barriers, processing needs, and helpful support strategies.
Clinical Focus: Communication Preferences, Self-Advocacy, Support Planning