Effective Communication

Am I Being Aggressive? What’s Passive Aggressive?

As therapists, we believe that effective communication is the foundation of healthy relationships and a fulfilling life. However, many of us struggle with communication, whether it's because we are afraid of conflict, have a hard time expressing ourselves, or tend to come across as too aggressive. This is where therapy can help.

In our practice, we focus on helping clients develop assertive communication skills. Assertive communication is a healthy and effective way of expressing oneself, while also being respectful of others. It involves being clear, direct, and honest about one's thoughts and feelings, while also being mindful of the other person's perspective. By learning how to communicate assertively, clients can improve their relationships, reduce their anxiety, and increase their self-esteem.

To understand the importance of assertive communication, it's helpful to first understand the difference between passive, aggressive, and assertive communication.

Passive communication is characterized by a lack of assertiveness. People who communicate passively often avoid conflict, and they may struggle to express their needs or opinions. They may also apologize excessively, put others' needs before their own, and struggle to say "no." While passive communication may seem like an easy way to avoid conflict, it can actually lead to feelings of resentment and low self-esteem.

Aggressive communication, on the other hand, is characterized by a lack of respect for others. People who communicate aggressively may use intimidation, criticism, or blame to get their point across. They may also interrupt others, raise their voice, or use sarcasm. While aggressive communication may seem effective in the short-term, it can damage relationships and lead to feelings of guilt and shame.

Assertive communication, on the other hand, is characterized by respect for both oneself and others. People who communicate assertively are clear and direct about their thoughts and feelings, while also being mindful of the other person's perspective. They may use "I" statements to express themselves, set boundaries, and assert their needs without resorting to aggression or passive behavior.

In our practice, we use a variety of therapeutic approaches to help clients develop assertive communication skills, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Motivational Interviewing. Through these approaches, clients can learn how to identify their communication style, develop assertive communication skills, and improve their relationships.

If you are struggling with communication, whether it's because you tend to be passive, aggressive, or struggle with assertiveness, we encourage you to reach out for help. By working with a therapist, you can develop the skills you need to communicate effectively and build healthy relationships. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a brighter future.