A conducive and welcoming environment may create unrealistic expectations from the client’s side; therefore, the counsellor needs to be cautious not to open up the space too early in his/her encounter with the client.

 “Opening up the space” within a counselling context is an automatic process and it requires no effort from the counsellor, otherwise, it becomes an artificial and incongruous act.

The counsellor’s warmth, congruence, and unconditional acceptance of the client irrespective of the client’s behaviour are essential in creating space for meaningful engagement.

 Micro-skills should not be used early in the session as they may hinder the client from sharing his/her experiences.