When a client with cancer expresses a desire to leave money to charity to ensure entry into heaven, what is the most therapeutic response?

The most therapeutic response is the one that acknowledges and reflects the client's feelings and concerns. In this case, when the client expresses a desire to leave money to charity as a way to secure a favorable outcome in the afterlife, responding with an acknowledgment of that sentiment demonstrates empathy and validates the client's perspective.

This response provides an opportunity for the client to explore their thoughts and beliefs about life, death, and moral considerations. By restating the essence of what the client has expressed, the response invites deeper discussion and may help the client articulate underlying fears, beliefs, or hopes related to their cancer diagnosis. It also creates a supportive space where the client feels heard and understood.

While other responses may intend to guide or redirect focus, they do not engage with the client's underlying feelings or beliefs as effectively. Acknowledging the client's concern offers a therapeutic avenue to explore their emotional state related to illness and spirituality, which can be an important aspect of coping and psychological adjustment during such challenging times.