What therapeutic communication technique can help a client express feelings of anxiety?

Active listening with open-ended questions is a therapeutic communication technique that is particularly effective in aiding a client to express their feelings of anxiety. This approach creates a supportive environment where the client feels safe to share and articulate their thoughts and emotions fully.

Open-ended questions encourage the client to elaborate on their feelings and experiences instead of providing simple yes or no answers, fostering deeper exploration of their anxiety. For example, instead of asking, "Are you feeling anxious?" a clinician might ask, "Can you tell me more about what you are feeling right now?" This not only validates the client's experience but also promotes insight and reflection, facilitating a more meaningful dialogue between the client and the clinician.

Overall, while other techniques may serve different purposes in therapy, active listening paired with open-ended questioning specifically invites clients to discuss their emotions in a constructive manner, making it an essential tool for addressing anxiety.