Varieties of silence: Understanding different forms and functions of silence in a psychotherapeutic setting

Abstract

The phenomenon of silence as a communication is explored in the dialogue between patient and therapist. The focus is on examining silence in the context within which it occurs, providing the opportunity to understand its variations while keeping in mind that the therapist's own awareness of the meanings is also part of what must be considered. Our aim is to highlight some different meanings and functions that silence can play in the psychotherapeutic relationship, from the perspectives of both the patient and therapist. In the closing section, we not only reflect on the more frightening aspects of silence, but also remind the reader that silence has the potential to help individuals reorient their lives, and that shared silence can function as a gateway for healing.