Which approach is taken when a counselor expresses understanding of a member's emotions?

The approach of empathy is key in building a strong rapport between the counselor and the member. When a counselor expresses empathy, they actively recognize and validate the member's feelings and emotions. This not only helps the member feel understood and supported but also fosters a trusting relationship where the member is more likely to share their concerns and challenges openly.

Empathy involves listening attentively and reflecting back the emotions being conveyed, which can help the member feel seen and heard. This understanding can lead to a deeper exploration of the member's financial situation and guiding them toward appropriate solutions.

In contrast, other approaches like blending, pacing, and assessment serve different purposes in the counseling process. Blending may refer to adapting to the member’s communication style, pacing involves aligning with the member’s emotional rhythm during the discussion, and assessment focuses on evaluating the member's financial situation and needs. While these techniques can also be important in a counseling session, they do not specifically highlight the emotional connection that empathy fosters.