Key Concepts in Reflective Listening

Reflecting in Therapy

• Definition: Reflecting involves repeating back to the client their words, either in full sentences or key phrases.
• Purpose:
  • Helps clients face and understand their emotions and thoughts.
  • Demonstrates to the client that the therapist is trying to understand them.

Example of Reflecting

• Client Statement: "Sometimes I just feel utterly hopeless, like a big cloud descending on me, utterly overwhelmed."
• Therapist Response: "Like a big cloud descending, utterly overwhelmed."
• Outcome: The client acknowledges the feeling, e.g., "Yes, it's so smothering."

Benefits of Reflecting

• Client Understanding: Assists clients in recognizing the strength and nature of their feelings.
• Therapist-Client Connection: Builds rapport by showing active listening and understanding.

Additional Resources

• Check out the "Improve Your Counselling Skills in 60 Seconds" series for more tips.
• Visit the Counselling and Psychotherapy Hub for further resources.