Glossary
Active listening
Active listening is listening closely, asking questions and restating what you heard so the speaker knows you understood them.
Last updated
The APA Dictionary of Psychology describes active listening as a therapy technique, most associated with client-centered therapy: listen closely, ask questions as needed to understand both the message and the feeling behind it, and restate what was said to check you got it right.
Between partners it can sound like: “So it’s not the money, it’s that I decided without asking you. Is that right?” The question at the end matters. It lets your partner correct you before you reply.
A good paraphrase helps, but it isn’t the goal. The goal is your partner feeling understood, and for some people a paraphrase alone won’t get them there.
Sources
- APA Dictionary of Psychology: active listening (checked October 21, 2026)
Have the conversation.
Tara sits between you, each on your own phone, so you both walk away heard. 3 days free, then $25 a month for both of you.