_Couples Counseling Interpersonal Communications - 1774 Words

COUPLES COUNSELING INTERPERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS Dear Mike and Karen: First, let me say that I am extremely flattered, and at the same time, somewhat apprehensive by your request for my input into your relationship. Please keep in mind that I am not a professional counselor, at least not yet, and that I have only begun to study the field. I also value my friendship with both of you and am slightly hesitant to provide even informal advice because I would never want to jeopardize our friendship in any way. That said, I believe that your letter does raise several important issues that I have already begun studying in school and I will do my best to share with you the benefit of what I have learned. Specifically, I have learned that: (1) With a little effort, it is usually possible to identify some of the barriers to effective interpersonal interactions; (2) There are appropriate and inappropriate levels of self-disclosure in relationships; (3) It is important and often quite helpful to understand the process by which our self-concept is developed and mai ntained; (4) It is equally important to recognize how our self-concept relates to both defensive messages and supportive messages (and behaviors) because they often corresponding to positive and negative communication climates in our relationships; (5) Our subjective perceptions, emotions, and nonverbal styles of expression affect interpersonal relationships; and (6) The words we use have the power to create and