Here's how it breaks down:
* Therapeutic communication is a specific type of communication used by healthcare professionals to build rapport, understand patients, and facilitate healing.
* Active listening is a core component of therapeutic communication. It involves paying close attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues, and demonstrating understanding to the speaker.
* Paraphrasing is a specific technique within active listening. It involves restating the speaker's message in your own words to ensure you understood it correctly. This demonstrates that you are listening attentively and encourages the speaker to elaborate or clarify.
By paraphrasing, you show the speaker that you:
* Are paying attention: You're not just passively listening, but actively processing what they're saying.
* Understand their message: You're demonstrating that you're following their train of thought.
* Are validating their feelings: You're acknowledging their emotions and perspective.
This can lead to greater trust, empathy, and understanding between the therapist and the patient.