Retaining its accessible format for which it is renowned, this text introduces the basic theoretical and practical skills essential for all health care professionals. New additions include sections on cultural aspects of communication and new evidence from recent research into counselling. Covers the revised British Association of Counselling Code of Ethics and Practice introduced in April 2002. Written for health care professionals and students for whom counselling is part of their role and who wish to take the first step to improving their counselling skills.