Why is it essential for school counselors to show empathy?

Showing empathy is essential for school counselors because it helps students feel understood, which is crucial for building trust and rapport. When counselors demonstrate empathy, they validate students' feelings and experiences, which can lead to more open communication. This connection can encourage students to express themselves, seek help, and engage more fully in the counseling process.

Supportive relationships foster an environment where students feel safe to share personal struggles, which is vital for effective counseling. Understanding students’ perspectives allows counselors to tailor their support and interventions, ensuring they address the unique challenges each student faces.

The other options do not capture the core reason for the importance of empathy. While an authoritative demeanor may be beneficial in some contexts, it doesn't foster meaningful connections. Avoiding difficult situations or reducing workload do not contribute to a counselor's fundamental role of supporting students emotionally and academically.