Professional Communication and Behaviour Change Skill

Core skills for a dietitian include the ability to communicate effectively and to promote positive behaviour changes in clients. This unit (HHN4001) explores the theories of effective communication and behaviour change, as they apply to healthcare practice, with specific focus on motivational interviewing techniques and promotion of behaviour change in clients. Students will develop professional approaches to verbal and non-verbal communication with clients and other professional. They will explore and develop, through scenarios, role plays and case studies, strategies for effective interviewing, active listening and goal setting with clients. Students will also develop skills in recording and communicating written information appropriately and professionally to clients and other professionals