Immediacy involves using what’s happening in the moment to help aid the client’s process. The counselor may point out body language, ask the client to identify current feelings, or even point out dynamics happening between the client and counselor. Skillful immediacy can help the client process deeper and recognize new insights.
In this example, a client is discussing a problem at work. The unskillful counselor seems to make the client feel uncomfortable and more anxious. The skillful counselor uses immediacy to help the client identify his feelings.