Introduction. Communication involves the exchange of messages and is a process in which all individuals participate. Whether through the spoken word, the written word, nonverbal means, or even silence, messages are constantly exchanged between individuals or groups of people (Bach & Grant 2009). Every behavior has a message and communication is a process in which individuals cannot avoid being involved (Ellis et al 1995). In nursing practice, communication is essential and good communication skills are critical in developing a therapeutic nurse/patient relationship. The purpose of this essay is to discuss the importance of communication in nursing, demonstrating how effective communication facilitates the therapeutic nurse/patient relationship. This will be achieved by providing a definition of communication, referring to communication models and explaining how different types of communication skills can be used in practice. To engage in meaningful communication and develop effective communication skills, nurses must engage in the process of reflecting on how communication skills are used in practice. Reflection offers the nurse the opportunity to gain deeper insight into personal strengths and weaknesses and address any areas of concern in order to improve future practice (Taylor 2001). A further objective will be to reflect on how communication skills have been used within nursing practice. Different models of reflection will be examined and, using a model, a reflective account of a personal experience that occurred during the internship will be provided. This reflective account will involve a description of the incident, an analysis of thoughts and feelings, and an evaluation of what happened. End...... middle of paper ......ds of Care for Health Visiting. Middlesex: Royal College of NursingSchubert, PE (2003) Client care, communication and teaching/learning. In: Hitchcock, JE, Schubert, PE & Thomas, SA Community Health Nursing, Caring in Action (2nd edition). New York: Delaware Learning, pp. 219-248Scriven, A. (2005) Health Promotion Practice. Hampshire: Palgrave MacMillanSiviter, B. (2008) The newly qualified nurses' handbook. A survival guide. Edinburgh: Balliere Tindall ElsevierWebster, C. & French, J. (2002) The cycle of conflict. The history of public health and health movements London: SageWeller, B.F. (2002) Bailliere's Nurses' Dictionary. (23rd edition) Elsevier: Edinburgh.Welsh Assembly Government. (2005) Health Standards for Wales, Making Connections, Designed for Life. World Health Organization (1989). Nursing leadership for health for all. Geneva: WHO.