Universalization

In social work practice universalisation is a supportive intervention used by the therapist to reassure and encourage his/her client. Universalisation places the client’s experience in the context of other individuals who are experiencing the same, or similar challenges, and seeks to help the client grasp that his/her feelings and experiences are not uncommon given the circumstances. The therapist or social worker using this supportive intervention intends to "normalize" the client's experience of his/her emotions and reactions to the presenting challenge. By normalising the client’s experience the therapist is attempting to help avert the client's natural feelings of "being alone", or that "no one understands me".