A client with depression says, 'I don't know why my son turned out this way; I wish I could start over.' Which nurse response would be therapeutic?

• A. You seem to be feeling regret.
• B. Sometimes you must not dwell on the past.
• C. It isn't your fault; move on.
• D. Everything will be fine.

Answer: (A)

Therapeutic communication centers on validating the client’s feelings and inviting them to explore what they’re experiencing. Saying “You seem to be feeling regret” names the emotion the client is expressing, which helps them feel understood and safely able to talk more about the sadness and guilt they’re carrying. This reflective, nonjudgmental response supports processing of difficult feelings and reduces isolation, which is important in depression.

Other responses rush to fix or dismiss the emotion—telling the client not to dwell on the past minimizes what they’re feeling; saying it isn’t their fault and to move on shifts responsibility and shuts down emotional sharing; and promising that everything will be fine offers hollow reassurance that can undermine trust.