Effective Paraphrasing

Definition and Core Concept of Paraphrasing

  • Formal Definition: Paraphrasing is the act of expressing the meaning of something written or said using different words.

  • Primary Description: It involves rephrasing the content of what the client said to demonstrate active understanding.

  • Frequency of Use: A provider may paraphrase at various intervals throughout a meeting.

  • Tone: Paraphrasing responses may be tentative or even questioning in tone to ensure accuracy and invite correction.

Guidelines for Professional Paraphrasing

  • Avoid Substantive Changes: Do not add extra meaning or direction to the client's original statement.

  • Core Objectives: The goal is to rephrase, reword, and reflect what the client just said, focusing specifically on the client's core message.

  • Brevity: Paraphrasing should utilize fewer words than the original statement.

  • Word Selection: Use different words while maintaining the same level of language as the client.

  • Emotional Sequencing: End the paraphrase with the main feeling expressed by the client.

  • Selective Focusing: It is not necessary to retain everything the client said; one should focus on the essential elements.

  • Neutrality: Paraphrasing does not include personal opinions, reactions, or commentary, whether negative or positive.

Sensory-Based Lead-ins and Communication Starters

  • Tapping Into Client Senses: One can tailor lead-ins based on the client's sensory language:

    • Visual: "I see….", "It looks like…"

    • Auditory: "I hear….", "It sounds like…."

    • Kinesthetic: "I feel…", "IT MOVED ME….."

  • Alternative Lead-in Phrases:

    • "What I hear you saying is…"

    • "In other words…"

    • "So basically how you felt was…"

    • "What happened was…"

    • "Sounds like you’re feeling…"

    • "To put it in a different way, you seem to be saying…"

    • "As I understand it…"

    • "It seems like…"

    • "So, from where you sit…"

    • "I’m not certain I understand you; you’re feeling…"

Common Obstacles and Mistakes in Paraphrasing

  • Over-Simplification and Parroting:

    • Avoid simply repeating the facts.

    • Be careful not to "parrot" the client; instead, recognize thoughts and perceptions to go a little deeper.

  • Addressing Distractions:

    • Distractions can arise from both external and internal "noise."

    • If you lose track of the client's account, stop and ask them to repeat the last part; this is a better option than missing key elements.

  • "Listening with One Ear":

    • This occurs when the provider is worrying about what to say next rather than paying attention to what is being said in the moment.

    • Solution: Maintain focus on the client. The ability to respond will become easier as the provider gains practice and confidence.

Practical Application: Case Study Examples

  • Scenario 1: Condensing the Message:

    • Athlete: "I broke my thumb, and then I lost my starting position I worked so hard for. On top of that I my coach said he could not guarantee I would get it back when my thumb was better."

    • Provider: "The message I get is that you’ve had a number of serious things going wrong this season."

  • Scenario 2: Using Same Words but Different Perspective:

    • Athlete: "I know it doesn’t help my nerves to pace around all morning before games."

    • Provider: "It sounds like you know you should avoid pacing around all morning to help your nerves."

  • Scenario 3: Checking Accuracy:

    • Athlete: "I watch film for hours every week and study game plan too. I can answer any question coach asks during meetings. I have it. Then, when game comes, I can’t seem to be in the right place."

    • Provider: "In other words, you have a good understanding of the opponent and game plan prior to game but have difficulty during games?"