This manual, the second in a three-volume series on counseling older adults, is intended to help service providers who work with older adults, to learn, practice, and develop communication skills. The format for the units consists of a statement of objectives, followed by an introduction and overview of the contents. Informative text, skill building activities, and a summary are also provided for each unit. The first unit introduces learning helping skills. Unit II presents information about the biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging. Unit III provides a self-exploration exercise focusing on attitudes about older adults. Unit IV describes the various components of a helping relationship, and unit V describes communication roadblocks, and skills for improving communication with older persons. Unit VI introduces more advanced communication skills, including interviewing and assertive techniques, the life review, and problem solving. Unit VII covers ending helping relationships as well as ending single encounters and referrals. Unit VIII discusses community resources and family or informal supports of older persons. Unit IX contains information about different groups of older persons including minorities, substance abusers, physically impaired persons, the dying, and the bereaved. Unit X provides hints for persons working with older adults in different settings such as community services, hospices, long term care, and in-home care. The final unit covers the importance of continued growth, and describes support groups of fellow workers as a valuable resource. The manual also includes a glossary of terms, a directory of field test workshop participants of the National Project on Counseling Older People, and an index. (JAC)