Final answer:
The therapist's suggestion to Melanie to think about what might be causing her anxiety and then shift her attention to playing a game with her children illustrates a technique used in cognitive therapy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The therapist's suggestion to Melanie to think about what might be causing her anxiety and then shift her attention to playing a game with her children illustrates a technique used in cognitive therapy. Cognitive therapy focuses on identifying and changing negative or irrational thought patterns that contribute to emotional distress or anxiety. By shifting her attention to a positive and engaging activity, Melanie can momentarily distract herself from her anxious thoughts and feelings.