Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

When a client expresses conflicting feelings about their addictions program, the counselor's inquiry reflects:

1. Interpretation

2. Active listening

3. Rationalization

4. Affective concern

The correct answer is: Interpretation

When a client expresses conflicting feelings about their addictions program, the counselor's inquiry reflects active listening. This is a vital counseling skill that involves not only hearing what the client says but also understanding and validating their emotions and thoughts. Active listening allows the counselor to engage with the client, encouraging them to delve deeper into their feelings and experiences. By doing so, the counselor can help the client explore their ambivalence and understand the nuances of their situation. Counselors who practice active listening will often paraphrase or summarize what the client has shared, fostering an environment of trust and openness. This approach helps clients feel heard and understood, which can lead to greater self-awareness and insight into their conflicting feelings. It emphasizes empathy and understanding, crucial components of the therapeutic relationship, ultimately guiding the client toward a resolution of their ambivalence around their addiction treatment. In this context, while interpretation, rationalization, and affective concern may play roles in counseling, they do not specifically capture the importance of fully engaging with the client's feelings as active listening does. Through this technique, the counselor can more effectively support the client in navigating their internal conflicts and promoting positive change.