Which therapeutic should you employ when you want to give your client control over what information they share at the start of a conversation?

The appropriate therapeutic technique to employ when aiming to give a client control over what information they share at the start of a conversation is to make broad opening remarks. This approach allows clients to feel at ease, fostering an environment where they can decide how much or how little they're willing to disclose. By initiating the conversation with general comments or open-ended statements, the caregiver can create a safe space that invites the client to share their thoughts and feelings at their own pace.

This method respects the client's autonomy and helps establish a therapeutic rapport, laying the foundation for more in-depth discussions as the client becomes comfortable. The focus is on allowing the client to guide the conversation, which is essential in promoting trust and ensuring that the client feels empowered in the therapeutic relationship.

Other options may not provide the same level of control or comfort for the client. For example, focusing or giving information might lead to a more structured conversation where the caregiver drives the dialogue, which could inhibit the client's willingness to share. Encouraging the formulation of an action plan typically occurs later when more information is gathered, rather than at the beginning of a conversation.