Which phrase refers to encouraging clients to express their true thoughts and feelings?

The phrase that best refers to encouraging clients to express their true thoughts and feelings is “unpacking emotions.” This concept emphasizes the therapeutic process of exploring and revealing deeper emotions that clients may not initially recognize or may be hesitant to share. By unpacking emotions, therapists encourage clients to articulate their feelings, enabling them to understand the underlying issues affecting their well-being and relationships. This process can lead to greater insight and emotional release, fostering a more honest and open therapeutic environment.

Other phrases, while related to the therapeutic process, do not specifically highlight the notion of encouraging true expression of thoughts and feelings. Concepts like “challenging the defenses” and “breaking down barriers” focus more on addressing protective mechanisms clients use to shield themselves from vulnerability. “Tickling the defenses,” on the other hand, suggests a lighter approach to engagement, but it does not convey the depth of encouraging true expression as effectively as unpacking emotions does.