What type of questioning should be used to encourage discussion during counseling sessions?

Using open-ended questions during counseling sessions is a highly effective approach for encouraging discussion. These types of questions invite the person being counseled to explore their thoughts and feelings more deeply, providing opportunities for them to clarify their experiences and share their perspectives in a more expansive manner.

Open-ended questions cannot be answered with a simple “yes” or “no,” which encourages detailed responses and fosters a safe environment for individuals to express themselves. This approach not only promotes engagement but also allows the counselor to gain greater insight into the individual’s thoughts, emotions, and motivations, which is crucial for effective counseling and support.

By contrast, yes or no questions, leading questions, and close-ended questions can limit the scope of conversation, often restricting the individual's ability to elaborate on their feelings or circumstances. Therefore, open-ended questions are essential for meaningful dialogue and self-discovery in a counseling context.