Which concept is defined as understanding and sharing a client’s feelings?

Empathy is defined as the capacity to understand and share the feelings and emotions of another individual. It involves not only recognizing someone else's emotional state but also connecting with that experience on a personal level. This concept is crucial in fields like medicine, counseling, and psychology because it fosters a deeper connection between a caregiver and the client, enhancing trust and communication.

When a healthcare provider embodies empathy, they can better meet the emotional and psychological needs of their patients. This connection often leads to improved patient outcomes as people feel heard and understood. It can also facilitate more effective treatments, as patients may be more open about their symptoms and concerns when they feel that their feelings are acknowledged.

Authenticity refers to being genuine or true to oneself, while supportiveness involves providing help and encouragement. Transparency relates to openness and honesty in communication. While all these concepts are valuable in a therapeutic context, they do not specifically capture the essence of understanding and sharing a client’s feelings, which is the core of empathy.