When a client is considering major life decisions in a relationship, the counselor's role includes:

• A. Forcing the Client to Stay
• B. Supporting Exploration of Options and Autonomy
• C. Judging the Client's Decision
• D. Avoiding the Topic

Answer: (B)

When clients are weighing major life decisions in a relationship, the counselor’s role is to support exploration of options and uphold the client’s autonomy. This means providing a nonjudgmental space, helping the client clarify values, goals, and possible consequences, and offering information or resources to inform choices. The counselor acts as a collaborative partner, not someone who directs or dictates what to do, which helps the client feel empowered to decide what fits best with their life.

Forcing someone to stay would be coercive and undermines the client’s right to self-determination. Judging the client’s choices damages trust and can shut down open discussion. Avoiding the topic stops progress and leaves important issues unaddressed.