Living with disability: part 2. The child/family/nurse relationship

This second part of a series of three CPD articles examines the relationship between children and young people with disabilities, their families and professionals by discussing the concept of 'therapeutic use of self'. The core skills that support this therapeutic intervention are: understanding the self and how we deal with our own emotions; managing our attitudes and beliefs; entering the experience of others (empathy); using reflective techniques to develop sensitivity; listening, speaking, supportive and counselling skills.