Attunement, Clinician

Clinician attunement allows clinicians to convey, verbally and nonverbally, that they are aligned with the present-moment experience of their clients. Originally, this term was used to describe parents or caretakers being attuned to the needs of infants and children. Later, this concept was applied to adult relationships, including the therapeutic relationship. From a holistic-mindfulness perspective, attunement begins with a resolve to stay connected to one’s own emotions [Page 121]and body sensations. Therapists use their own feelings and sensations as clues to the inner experience of clients and the connections between all those in the therapy room. Attunement is when clinicians use their own internal cues to allow clients to experience a sense of being supported. This entry discusses the complexity of clinician attunement in working ...