What does reflecting involve during a counseling session?

Reflecting during a counseling session involves mirroring emotions or thoughts expressed by the client. This technique is essential for building rapport, demonstrating empathy, and ensuring that the client feels heard and understood. By mirroring the client’s feelings or thoughts, the coach or counselor helps to validate their experience and encourages deeper exploration of their feelings.

This process enables clients to clarify their thoughts and emotions, allowing for more effective communication and understanding during the session. It also encourages clients to engage in self-reflection, paving the way for personal insight and growth. This is distinct from simply restating factual information, which does not necessarily foster emotional connection, or offering practical solutions, which may shift the focus away from the client’s emotional experience. Additionally, changing the topic entirely would disrupt the flow of the conversation and undermine the client's opportunity to process their emotions. Hence, mirroring emotions or thoughts is a critical skill in effective counseling practices.