A client arrives late and is visibly upset. What should the COTA® say to show empathy?

The most empathetic response in this scenario would be to acknowledge the client's difficult feelings directly. By saying "It must be very difficult," the COTA® validates the client's emotional state and demonstrates an understanding of their struggle. This kind of response provides a safe space for the client to express themselves further and feels more connected to the COTA®, which is central to building therapeutic rapport.

Validating emotions is essential in therapy, as it encourages clients to engage and share their feelings. Acknowledgment of difficulty can lead to improved communication and a better therapeutic alliance, which can enhance the effectiveness of the treatment process.

In contrast, options like thanking the client or suggesting they take their time may come off as polite but do not directly address the emotional distress the client is experiencing. Offering to have the session later can also feel dismissive, as it avoids confronting the immediate emotional situation. Therefore, directly affirming the client's distress is the most effective way to show empathy and support.