- Active Listening: One of the most important skills in counseling is active listening. This involves giving full attention to the patient, acknowledging their feelings, and providing appropriate feedback. - Empathy: Nurses need to show empathy to understand the emotional state of their patients better. This can help in building a more trusting relationship. - Education: Providing information about conditions, treatments, and lifestyle changes is a form of counseling that empowers patients. - Referral: Sometimes, the best way to help a patient is to refer them to a specialist, whether it be a psychologist, physical therapist, or social worker.