What is an example of non-therapeutic communication?

• A. Giving advice.
• B. Demonstrating empathy.
• C. Asking open-ended questions.
• D. Reflecting feelings.

Answer: (A)

Giving advice is non-therapeutic because it directs what the patient should do instead of helping them explore their feelings, options, and autonomy. When you unsolicitedly tell someone what to do, it can feel judgmental or paternalistic and may shut down the patient’s own problem-solving voice. It places the clinician in a controlling role rather than a collaborative one, reducing the patient’s sense of ownership over their care.

Therapeutic communication, on the other hand, centers on supporting the patient’s self-expression and decision-making. Demonstrating empathy shows you understand and validate the patient’s emotions, which builds trust and safety for open dialogue. Asking open-ended questions invites detailed responses, helping you gather richer information and encouraging patient engagement. Reflecting feelings mirrors what the patient is expressing emotionally, confirming you’re listening and helping them process their experience.

So, the best example of non-therapeutic communication is giving advice, because it shifts control away from the patient and interrupts collaborative dialogue, whereas the other techniques actively foster understanding, autonomy, and meaningful communication.