Which of the following is a therapeutic communication technique useful in psychosocial care?

Paraphrasing is a valuable therapeutic communication technique because it helps to clarify understanding between healthcare providers and patients. By restating what the patient has said in your own words, you demonstrate active listening and show that you are engaged in the conversation. This technique not only helps confirm that the provider has understood the patient's feelings and thoughts accurately, but it also allows the patient to hear their feelings reflected back, which can further facilitate self-exploration and expression.

In psychosocial care, where understanding and validating a patient’s experience is crucial, paraphrasing fosters a supportive environment. It encourages patients to share more, deepens trust, and enhances the therapeutic relationship, ultimately improving patient outcomes. This technique contrasts sharply with giving direct advice, which may bypass the patient's own insights, or using complicated medical jargon, which can alienate and confuse patients instead of fostering understanding. Avoiding personal questions may fail to engage the patient on a deeper level and hinder the development of rapport necessary for effective psychosocial intervention.