Many healthcare professionals find that role play in communication skills training offers a safe and effective environment to practice and enhance their interpersonal techniques. This is despite fearing role-play before they begin and see/feel it in action.
For many people, the thought of doing role play in a training session brings a familiar wave of anxiety, and don’t get me wrong, we understand why. It can feel exposing, vulnerable, even intimidating. But time and again, participants on our Advanced Communication Skills Course tell us that role play is not only manageable, but often the most valuable part of the experience.
One of the key reasons for this is the thoughtful, intentional way it is delivered by the team who bring it to life.
In a short video, Bev, one of our experienced actors, talks about her role. She’s clear that she’s not there to showcase her acting skills. Her job isn’t to perform, but to bring to life the character of a person the course participant wants her to be. Her motivation is deeply rooted in creating a safe, supportive space where someone can test out new communication strategies or approaches without fear of judgment.
Bev shares how important it is to her that each person’s feelings are taken into account. She understands that learning, especially when it involves real human emotions, can be tough. But kindness, patience, and a clear commitment to your learning make all the difference. That’s how we aim to create a kind and effective learning environment, where people feel safe enough to stretch themselves and try something new.
One of the most unique aspects of working with actors like Bev is their ability to offer in-character feedback. After a scenario ends, Bev can speak as the character, sharing how she genuinely felt during the interaction. For example, what built trust, what may have caused discomfort, what made her feel heard. It’s honest, immediate, and rooted in the moment, helping to build deep insight and self-awareness for the healthcare professional.
We know that role play can feel daunting at first. But we promise, it’s not about “getting it right” or being perfect. It’s about being real, trying things out, and discovering what works for you and your patients.
And if you need reassurance? Just take it from those who’ve been there, as many participants have told us in their feedback:
“I was dreading the role play, but it turned out to be the best part of the course.”
“This is a course everyone should take specifically those who find difficult conversations difficult. You come out with both knowledge and skills and that confidence that you can face anything. The role play using communicating skills was very helpful in truly understanding the different communication skills.
If you’re curious, nervous, or simply want to improve the way you connect with patients and families — role play might just be the unexpected highlight of your learning journey. Why not consider attending one of our advanced communication skills courses?
