When a client discloses a painful memory, the best thing a therapist can do is:
A) Reassure the client that the past is behind him or her now.
B) Ask a different question to direct the client toward more positive material.
C) Listen well and empathize.
D) Listen well and sympathize.
E) Continue to question the client so he/she can learn more about the memory.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When a client discloses a painful memory, the best thing a therapist can do is to listen well and empathize. This helps the client feel understood and validated, which can lead to a deeper level of trust and healing in therapy. Reassuring the client or asking a different question can minimize the client's experience and undermine the therapeutic process. Sympathizing with the client can also detract from the therapeutic process by suggesting that the therapist understands the full extent of the client's experience, which may not be accurate. Continuing to question the client can be useful in some cases, but it is important to balance this with empathy and sensitivity to the client's emotional experience.

When a Client Discloses a Painful Memory, the Best Thing