What is an example of an open-ended question in a counseling session?

An open-ended question invites the individual to express their thoughts and feelings in a more expansive way rather than providing a simple, factual answer. "How do you feel about your financial future?" is a prime example of this type of questioning. This question encourages the client to reflect and share their opinions and emotions regarding their financial situation, leading to a more in-depth conversation that can uncover underlying concerns, aspirations, or fears.

In contrast, the other options are more closed in nature. They seek specific information that can typically be answered with brief, direct responses. For example, questions regarding age or job title generally elicit yes/no or single-word answers, which do not facilitate a deeper exploration of the individual's thoughts or feelings. The aim of open-ended questions in counseling is to promote dialogue and gain insight into the client's perspective, making the chosen question particularly effective in that context.