What does "empowerment" mean in therapy?

Empowerment in therapy is centered around enabling clients to gain control over their lives and decisions. This approach fosters autonomy by encouraging clients to explore their strengths, set their goals, and develop skills necessary for self-management. The therapeutic relationship is built on collaboration, where the therapist acts as a facilitator, guiding the client to discover their abilities and empowering them to make informed choices. This positive reinforcement encourages personal growth and resilience, allowing clients to feel more confident in their decision-making processes and in taking charge of their lives.

The other options do not align with the concept of empowerment. Creating dependency on the therapist undermines the goal of helping clients become self-sufficient. Advising clients on career choices can be a part of therapy but does not encompass the broader goal of empowerment. Focusing exclusively on past traumas may limit the therapeutic process by not allowing clients to develop forward-thinking skills and strategies essential for empowerment.