Attending behavior that is verbal is also called what?

• A. Verbal tracking
• B. Nonverbal mirroring
• C. Cognitive labeling
• D. Paraphrasing

Answer: (A)

Attending behavior expressed verbally means using language to show you’re following the client’s message and staying with their train of thought. Verbal tracking involves echoing or reflecting what they’ve said, asking clarifying questions, and summarizing to confirm you understand and to keep the conversation moving. It’s the verbal counterpart to nonverbal attending cues and helps the client feel heard and validated. This differs from nonverbal mirroring (using posture or facial cues), cognitive labeling (naming emotions or thoughts), or paraphrasing (restating in your own words). Verbal tracking specifically captures that ongoing, active following of the client’s narrative through spoken responses.