It is well known by now that a doctor’s demeanour influences the clinical response patients have to any prescribed treatment.

We also know that, even when nothing is prescribed, a doctor’s careful listening, examination and reassurance about the normalcy of common symptoms and experiences can decrease patients’ suffering in the broadest sense of the word.

This has been the bread and butter of counsellors for years. People will faithfully attend and pay for weeks, months and even years of therapy visits just to have an attentive and active listener and to feel like they have an ally.

We also have data that show that adherence to treatment plans is dependent on how patients feel about their provider. One problem solved can build an ally for life.