New: Psyched to Practice is teaming up with Guilford Press to bring you new books, authors, and CE opportunities.
  • Author:

    Ray Christner, PsyD & Paul Wagner, MS

  • Level: 

    Foundational

  • CREDIT(S)

    1

  • Video

    1 hour 27 minutes

Words, Words, Words

In this episode of the Psyched to Practice podcast, Paul Wagner and Dr. Ray Christner have a thoughtful discussion on the critical role of language—both verbal and nonverbal—in shaping the therapeutic process. Drawing on experiences from clinical supervision, training, research, and practice, they examine how intentional word choice, paraverbal cues, and nonverbal communication impact the therapeutic alliance and client outcomes. The conversation also examines the complexities of everyday language in therapy, from greetings and session transitions to the deliberate use of emotionally charged or even taboo language as tools for insight and change.
This episode emphasizes reflective practice and clinical adaptability, offering advanced practitioners strategies to engage more deeply with clients’ unique communication styles. Listeners will gain practical insights into how language and presence can be leveraged to build rapport, evoke emotion, and tailor interventions, ultimately enhancing therapeutic effectiveness.

Course Objectives:

1. Analyze the clinical impact of intentional language selection—including session openings, closings, and emotionally charged terminology—on therapeutic rapport and outcomes.
2. Differentiate appropriate contexts and methods for integrating expletives and direct language into session dialogue to promote authentic client engagement and emotional expression.
3. Evaluate the influence of nonverbal and para-verbal communication on therapeutic effectiveness, and implement evidence-based strategies to align verbal and nonverbal cues with clinical intentions.
4. Formulate interventions that foster client self-awareness and emotional movement by skillfully attending to both verbal content and nonverbal communication patterns within diverse client populations.

Psyched to Practice Podcast: Ray Christner, PsyD &
Paul Wagner, MS

Dr. Ray W. Christner, Psy.D., NCSP, ABPP, is a licensed psychologist, certified school psychologist, registered health service psychologist, and board-certified specialist in behavioral and cognitive psychology. He operates an independent practice in Pennsylvania and provides telepsychology services across 43 states. Dr. Christner specializes in psychological/neuropsychological assessment, psychotherapy, and consultation for children, adolescents, and adults. He is an internationally renowned author, test developer, and presenter. He is frequently invited to contribute to professional conferences and popular media outlets. 

Paul Wagner, MS, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor at ElevateMind, LLC, specializing in ADHD and executive functioning. He uses a cognitive-behavioral approach to empower clients and foster self-acceptance. As someone with ADHD, he understands their unique challenges and works with individuals, couples, and families for personal growth. Additionally, he shares his mental health expertise as cohost of the podcast Psyched to Practice.
Write your awesome label here.

Psyched to Practice, LLC, is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Psyched to Practice, LLC, maintains responsibility for this program and its content. 


Psyched to Practice, LLC, is approved by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) to offer continuing professional development (CPDs) for school psychologists.  Psyched to Practice, LLC, maintains responsibility for this program and its content. 

Other mental health and education professionals are welcome to attend our webinars, workshops, and courses. Participants will receive a continuing education certificate upon completion. We encourage individuals to consult their respective licensing or accrediting boards to determine eligibility for continuing education credit within their professional field. 

100 West Eisenhower Drive, Suite B, Hanover, PA 17331

About Us

Program

CE Library

Psyched to Practice, LLC, is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Psyched to Practice, LLC, maintains responsibility for this program and its content. 
Psyched to Practice, LLC, is approved by the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) to offer continuing professional development (CPDs) for school psychologists. Psyched to Practice, LLC, maintains responsibility for this program and its content. 
Other mental health and education professionals are welcome to attend our webinars, workshops, and courses. Participants will receive a continuing education certificate upon completion. We encourage individuals to consult their respective licensing or accrediting boards to determine eligibility for continuing education credit within their professional field.

© 2025 Psyched To Practice | All Rights Reserved | Cookies Policy | Privacy Policy | Terms & Conditions