Which of the following best describes the concept of counselor self-disclosure?

The best description of counselor self-disclosure is revealing information relevant to the client's situation. This concept is grounded in the idea that when counselors choose to share personal experiences or insights, it is done purposefully to enhance the therapeutic process. By disclosing relevant information, counselors can help clients feel understood and see that their struggles may be shared by others, thus fostering a sense of connection and trust.

This kind of disclosure is often strategic, intended to support the client's exploration of their own thoughts and feelings. It can serve to normalize the client's experiences, demonstrate empathy, and model healthy communication about personal issues. The focus is not on the counselor's life per se, but on how their experiences relate to the client’s needs.

In contrast, sharing personal stories solely to build trust may not always serve a therapeutic purpose, as it risks shifting the focus away from the client. Revealing one's own emotional problems could lead to the counselor's issues overshadowing the client’s therapy, which can be counterproductive. Offering unsolicited advice does not align with the principles of self-disclosure, as it does not involve sharing relevant personal information; instead, it may impose the counselor's views rather than facilitating the client's self-exploration and understanding.