Identifying Therapeutic Communication Techniques

A nurse is conducting a therapeutic communication session with a client diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The client expresses feelings of being overwhelmed by daily tasks and worries excessively about health issues. In response, the nurse utilizes a technique meant to validate the client's feelings while also encouraging exploration of these concerns. The nurse says, 'It sounds like you are feeling quite overwhelmed right now. Can you tell me more about what specifically worries you about your health?' In this context, the nurse's response demonstrates the therapeutic communication technique of _____.