Using Compassion in Our Care

I think that we can demonstrate compassion to our clients/patients in many different ways, such as through respectful actions and words, seeking to learn more about their experiences, and listening to their stories from a perspective of genuine curiosity. I believe that compassion can also be demonstrated through simple actions and behaviours of the clinician, like maintaining punctuality of appointments, letting clients know when we are going to be late or when we may be short on time, and focusing on the client when we are with them rather than checking email or letting other coworkers interrupt our interactions. I believe that compassion can be clearly conveyed in more overt and more subtle ways. 

I think that the language that we use with clients also demonstrate compassion, using the words that they use and reflecting the seriousness of certain situations if they feel like something is important or relevant to them. I think that compassion can also be demonstrated in being there for clients and letting them know what our role is and the type of support that we can provide. 

Love,

Michelle D.