Using Matthew Westra conversational and class-tested book, students will learn the skills they need to take
an active role in the communication process. Appropriate for helpers-in-training from a variety of disciplines,
including counseling, human services, psychology, speech communication, teacher education, business, and health,
this book helps students learn to observe, reflect upon, and practice active listening in a helping environment.
Interdisciplinary applications of listening and speaking are presented to help facilitate development of the specialized
concepts that helping professionals employ, which involves directness, openness, and empathy.
Presents an interdisciplinary, student-friendly introduction to communication skills with a helpful visual
(pyramid) model.
Helps students develop successful communication skills quickly while integrating communication skills into
counseling concepts.
Illustrates the difference between the assumed/learned concept of listening and the specialized, professional
kind of listening that counselors develop, which involves frankness, openness, and empathy.
Includes many helpful pedagogical aids, such as ''Write About It, Think About it, Try It,'' exercises; examples
from real lives; chapter opening quotations from notable people; and an appendix that provides ideas for exercises
and role-play scenarios from a variety of settings.
Table of Contents
1. The Pyramid of Active Communication.
2. Process of Communication.
3. Attitudes for Active Communication.
4. Skills of the Body.
5. Probes and Questions.
6. Skills of Reflection.
7. Speaking to Be Heard.
8. Applications.
Appendix A : Topics for Exercises and Discussions.
Appendix B : Role Play Scenarios.
