Using Matthew Westra's conversational and class-tested book, readers will learn the skills they need to take an active role in the communication process. Appropriate for 'helpers' from a variety of disciplines, including counseling, human services, psychology, speech communication, teacher education, business, and health, this book helps readers learn to observe, reflect upon, and practice active listening in a helping environment. Interdisciplinary applications of listening and speaking are presented to help facilitate development of the specialized concepts that helping professionals employ, which involves directness, openness, and empathy.