Johnston and Brinamen (2006) have identified 10 elements that seem to be essential to the consultative stance.

The 10 elements are:

1. The centrality of relationships
2. Parallel process as an organizing principle
3. Avoiding the position of the expert
4. Mutuality of endeavor
5. Understanding another’s subjective experience
6. Considering all levels of influence
7. Hearing and representing all voices
8. Wondering instead of knowing
9. Patience
10. Holding hope

The following pages define each element and provide a ten-part scenario that illustrates each of the ten elements through the interaction among:

• Renee, a home visitor;
• Jasmine, a mental health consultant; and
• Shelby a young mother and her 10 month old daughter Niya.