What Is the Immediacy Skill in Counseling?

Immediacy is an important skill used by therapists in the delivery of counseling services. This approach invites clients to look at the interaction between the therapist and themselves. It is focused on the present moment and involves sharing perceptions and feelings, according to Talking Therapy.

The immediacy technique gives clients the opportunity to reflect on issues that may be occurring in relationships outside of client-therapist interactions. A counselor skilled in using this approach is able to propose possible correlations between client-therapist interactions and other significant relationships. The client-therapist environment can be a safe space to explore dynamics that may be occurring in other relationships. The skill of immediacy invites clients to investigate feelings and scenarios related to trust and boundary issues. Therapists must practice sensitivity when utilizing this therapeutic tool.

ADVERTISEMENT