Active listening in counseling sessions primarily includes which of the following?

Active listening is a crucial skill in counseling sessions that allows the counselor to fully understand and engage with the client. The correct answer focuses on paraphrasing and responding, which are key components of active listening.

When a counselor paraphrases what a client has said, they reflect back the content and feelings expressed by the client, demonstrating that they are engaged and paying attention. This technique not only clarifies communication but also helps the client feel understood and validated. Responding appropriately to a client's statements further facilitates a productive dialogue, allowing deeper exploration of issues and ensuring that the client feels heard.

In contrast, while probing into specific areas of behavior can be useful in certain contexts, it is more of an investigative technique rather than an element of active listening. Empathizing is an important aspect of building rapport but is not as directly linked to the technical skills of active listening as paraphrasing and responding. Selective perception can hinder understanding and communication, making it counterproductive in a counseling session.

Thus, the emphasis on paraphrasing and responding highlights the importance of effective communication and understanding in the counseling process, aligning with the principles of active listening that promote a supportive and open environment for clients.