Komunikasi Terapeutik pada Layanan Terapi Anak Autisma di Risantya Bandung

Abstract

This study aims to explore the use of verbal and nonverbal messages, as well as therapeutic communication techniques, employed by therapists in autism therapy services at the Risantya Therapy and Remediation Center in Bandung. A qualitative descriptive approach was used to systematically describe these communication phenomena. The study involved five therapists selected through purposive sampling as informants. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, passive participant observation in the therapy room, and documentation, and were analyzed using the interactive analysis model by Miles, Huberman, and Saldana combined with thematic analysis. The results of the study indicate that verbal message delivery is strictly adapted, focusing on concrete denotative meanings, specific vocabulary, and concise instructions using short syllables. Nonverbal communication serves as the primary foundation, emphasizing eye contact, firm facial expressions, specific hand gestures, and structured physical touch to calm aggressive behavior, all of which are managed within personal space. Furthermore, therapists consistently applied five core therapeutic techniques: active listening, asking open-ended questions, providing information, offering praise, and using silence to allow the child time for cognitive processing. These structured communication strategies play a crucial role in stimulating interactive responses and behavioral compliance in children during the rehabilitation process.