Rapport

Rapport, in the field of psychology, refers to the warmth and trust that develops between two or more people, relevant to therapy, professional, or even casual interactions. It is understood as the absence of discord, the respect of one another, which makes communication smooth and more profound. Rapport is crucial in counseling and therapy. There are circumstances whereby the stronger the rapport between the counselor and the client, the more the client is able to open up, the more the anxiety is reduced, and the personal growth is encouraged. The client’s sensitive experiences are listened to, understood, and responded to by the therapist in an empathic, non-judgmental manner such that the client feels more able to discuss them.  Research indicates that rapport is the resultant of certain verbal and non-verbal behaviors such as relevant eye contact, and mimicry of the posture and gestures of the other person and body posture, probing, and centered listening. Rapport entails a mutual and respectful communication of people whereby trust, cooperation and conversation is easily flowing and deeper discussion occurs. Rapport is crucial outside therapy as it is critical in the workplace, classroom and even personal relationships which solves issues and reinforces emotional aspects of the life of the other person.