Which of the following enriches the therapeutic relationship and transforms it into a healing relationship?

Empathy

The correct answer is Option 2: Empathy

Empathy enriches the therapeutic relationship and transforms it into a healing relationship.

Empathy—the therapist’s ability to understand and share the feelings of the client—is what enriches the therapeutic relationship and transforms it into a healing one. It allows clients to feel genuinely seen, heard, and validated, which is central to psychological healing.

• Unconditional positive regard (Option 1) is vital for a nonjudgmental space but is a part of a broader therapeutic attitude.

• Trust (Option 3) is built through empathy and consistency, and while essential, it is a result rather than the core transforming factor.

• Confidentiality (Option 4) provides safety, but alone doesn’t transform the relationship emotionally.