Page 19 - PartA
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Counselling Skills
Key Fact
Knowing when to use open or closed questions is a key skill
in counselling.
6. Paraphrasing
Paraphrasing is another core skill required in counselling. Paraphrasing is where the
counsellor rephrases the content of the client’s message. It is used to:
• Convey understanding
• Encourage the client to elaborate
• Help the client by simplifying what they are saying
• Provide a check on the counsellor’s understanding and give the client an
opportunity to correct any misunderstanding.
Key Fact
Paraphrasing does not mean repeating word for word what the client
has said, but to condense it into the key points made by the client.
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