What is a positive outcome of a relaxed atmosphere in a counseling session?

A relaxed atmosphere in a counseling session fosters an environment where individuals feel safe and comfortable to express their thoughts and feelings openly. This sense of ease reduces anxiety and promotes trust between the counselor and the client, making it more likely that the client will share personal experiences and emotions. When clients feel relaxed, they can engage in more effective and meaningful conversations, leading to better understanding and resolution of issues. This encourages open dialogue, which is crucial for the therapeutic process, allowing for exploration of underlying concerns and facilitating personal growth.

In contrast, other options highlight aspects that a relaxed atmosphere aims to avoid. For example, a reduction of emotional expression, increased defensive behavior, and limitations on personal discussions indicate a negative outcome that would not encourage effective counseling.