Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

Which skill involves the counselor restating what the client has expressed in their own words?

1. Reflection of feeling

2. Paraphrasing

3. Summarizing

4. Clarifying questions

The correct answer is: Paraphrasing

The skill that involves the counselor restating what the client has expressed in their own words is known as paraphrasing. This technique is essential in effective counseling as it helps to demonstrate active listening and understanding. By paraphrasing, the counselor effectively communicates to the client that their thoughts and feelings have been heard and understood accurately, fostering a trusting therapeutic relationship. Paraphrasing also gives the client an opportunity to hear their own words reflected back to them, which can clarify their thoughts and feelings and help them gain new insights. This process encourages deeper exploration of their issues, allowing the counselor to guide the client through their concerns more effectively. While reflection of feeling focuses specifically on the emotional content conveyed by the client, summarizing encompasses a broader overview of multiple points made during the session. Clarifying questions are aimed at gaining more specific information rather than restating what has been said. Therefore, paraphrasing is the most appropriate answer in relation to restating the client's expressions.