Population Reports
GATHER Guide To Counseling

CONTENTS

Overviews

GATHER Steps

Special Clients,
Special Topics

Tools & Tips

 Published by the Population Information Program, Center for Communication Programs, The Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, 111 Market Place, Suite 310, Baltimore, Maryland 21202, USA


Volume XXVI, Number 4
December, 1998

Series J, Number 48
Six Principles for Good Counseling

Adapted from: Murphy, E. and Steele Verme, C. Client-provider interactions in family planning services: Guidance from research and program experience. In: Technical Guidance/Competence Working Group. Recommendations for updating selected practices in contraceptive use. Vol. 2. Chapel Hill, NC, INTRAH, 1997.

  1. Treat each client well. All clients deserve respect, whatever their age, marital status, ethnic group, sex, or sexual and reproductive health behavior. (See Greet.)

  2. Interact. Each client is a different person. Ask questions, listen, and respond to each client's own needs, concerns, and situation. (See Ask.)

  3. Give the right amount of information—enough for the client to make informed choices but not so much that the client is overloaded. (See Tell.)

  4. Tailor and personalize information. Give clients the specific information that they need and want, and help clients see what the information means to them. (See Tell.)

  5. Unless a valid medical reason prevents it, provide the family planning method that the client wants. (See Help.)

  6. Help clients remember instructions. (See Explain.)

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