What term describes a social worker's sharing of their own experiences with a client?

Self-disclosure is the term that describes a social worker's sharing of their own experiences with a client. This practice involves the social worker sharing personal information or experiences that may be relevant to the client’s situation. The intent of self-disclosure is to build rapport, foster trust, and demonstrate empathy, which can enhance the therapeutic relationship.

In the context of social work, self-disclosure must be used judiciously and in a manner that benefits the client's process. It can help clients feel more connected and understood, and it can normalize their experiences or feelings. However, the sharing must always prioritize the client's well-being and should be done with the understanding that it is meant to support the client's growth and development in therapy.

While personal reflection, client sharing, and professional sharing can all be part of the social work process, they do not specifically encapsulate the act of a social worker openly sharing their own life experiences to aid in the therapeutic relationship. Personal reflection typically refers to the internal process a social worker engages in to understand their own thoughts and feelings, rather than sharing them with a client. Client sharing refers to when clients share their experiences, which is a crucial aspect of therapy but contrasts with the social worker's actions. Professional sharing might refer to broader