Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CAADC) Practice Exam

What type of reflection error occurs when a helper's response overshoots the client's emotional expression?

1. Drollery

2. Depth

3. Timing

4. Inappropriate disclosure

The correct answer is: Depth

The correct answer, depth, refers to the situation where a helper's response does not match the emotional intensity or depth of the client's expression. When a helper overshoots a client's emotional expression, it indicates that the response offered is more profound or intense than what the client has shown. This can lead to the client feeling misunderstood or overwhelmed, as the helper's reaction may not align with the client's immediate emotional state. In practice, maintaining appropriate depth in responses is critical for effective counseling, as it helps in creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood. By accurately matching the client's emotional depth, helpers can encourage open dialogue and foster a stronger therapeutic alliance. The other options refer to different issues in communication. Drollery relates to humor that could be misaligned with the client's feelings. Timing deals with how responses may come too late or too soon, and inappropriate disclosure involves sharing personal experiences that may overshadow the client’s narrative rather than enhancing understanding. Each of these differences highlights the importance of understanding the nuances of client interactions in counseling.