Validation is taking mirroring to another level. The goal is to repeat what the other person says while also implying some understanding of how they are feeling. One caveat to be aware of is the risk of misinterpreting feelings. If you get it wrong, it can be disastrous.
Validation does not have to be agreement; it can also be understanding where the other person is coming from and genuinely caring. Even if there is disagreement, validation allows for a more constructive resolution rather than a defensive one.
