Ever felt like you were the only one dealing with something, only to discover that it's more common than you thought? This realization can be liberating, and it's something we therapists aim to offer our clients through the power of normalization. Journey with us, and our co-host, Stacey Frost, as we unravel the complexities of microskills in therapy, with a special focus on normalization. We'll unpack how this technique can help your clients understand that their experiences aren't isolated, providing a comforting sense of universality that aids in reducing feelings of stigma and isolation. But it's not always the right response, especially when safety is a concern. So, we'll explore how to navigate these tricky waters, ensuring the wellbeing of your clients is always at the forefront.Have you ever wondered how to strike the balance between validation and normalization in therapy? We've got you covered! Validation is about empathetically recognizing a client's experiences, while normalization puts these experiences in a broader context to show they're not alone. However, normalizing isn't always the answer, especially when it involves destructive behaviors. So, we'll delve into these nuances with Stacey and discuss how to create a supportive, non-judgmental environment that fosters growth and healing. For those preparing for licensure exams, Stacey has some invaluable tips that you won't want to miss. Join us on this insightful journey as we equip you with the skills to better support your clients and ace that exam!If you need to study for your NCMHCE narrative exam, try the free samplers at: CounselingExam.comThis podcast is not associated with the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC) or any state or governmental agency responsible for licensure.