What should the counselor focus on during the attending process?

During the attending process, the counselor should focus on the client’s verbal and nonverbal expressions. This is crucial because attending is essentially about being fully present and engaged with the client. By paying attention to both what the client says (verbal expressions) and how they say it or express themselves physically (nonverbal expressions), the counselor can gain a deeper understanding of the client's feelings, thoughts, and experiences.

Attending involves not just listening but also observing. Nonverbal signals, such as body language, facial expressions, and eye contact, can provide insight into how the client is truly feeling, even if their words do not fully convey it. This understanding helps in building rapport, fostering a trusting relationship, and tailoring the counseling approach to meet the client’s unique needs.

The other options do not align with the essential focus during the attending process. Personal feelings of the counselor might cloud judgment and distract from the client's needs. Giving advice before fully understanding the client’s perspective can undermine the effectiveness of the counseling relationship. Additionally, focusing on session duration could detract from the depth of connection and understanding that is necessary for effective counseling. The primary aim should always center on the client's communication, both verbal and nonverbal, to create a supportive environment