Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Practice Examination

What does the principle of OARES aim to promote in counseling sessions?

1. Structured interventions for all clients

2. Client autonomy and self-motivation

3. Research-based therapy techniques

4. Group therapy effectiveness

The correct answer is: Client autonomy and self-motivation

The principle of OARES emphasizes promoting client autonomy and self-motivation in counseling sessions. OARES stands for Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflections, and Summaries. These techniques are designed to enhance the client's engagement in the therapeutic process, allowing them to explore their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors more deeply. By using open-ended questions, counselors encourage clients to express themselves beyond simple yes or no answers, fostering a sense of ownership over their experiences and insights. Affirmations recognize and validate the client's strengths and efforts, which bolsters their confidence and motivation to change. Reflections help clients process their thoughts and emotions by encouraging deeper exploration and understanding, and Summaries allow clients to see the progress they have made in the session. The combination of these approaches fosters an environment where clients feel empowered to take control of their own therapeutic journey, ultimately leading to increased self-motivation to achieve their goals. While structured interventions, research-based therapy techniques, and group therapy effectiveness are important aspects of counseling, they do not encapsulate the primary focus of OARES, which is centered on enhancing client autonomy and motivation.