Understanding the Unsaid: Enhancing Multicultural Competence Through Nonverbal Awareness

Nonverbal communication has a primary role in emotional expression and a demonstrated impact on the counseling relationship. Nonverbal communication can vary cross-culturally and can influence the formation of a therapeutic relationship with culturally diverse clients. This article briefly explores the existing research in counseling and related fields and notes the dearth of research on nonverbal awareness and skills training in counselor education. A review of key differences in nonverbal communication across cultures, an outline of basic skills that can be taught to counselors-in-training, and in-class training activities are provided. The authors call for an increased focus on nonverbal communication awareness and skills training in counselor education research and training programs to enhance multicultural competence.