Was [name withheld]’s dream about her mother, a true dream visitation with her spirit?

This, in fact, was the case. It seemed very real because it was real. This was a perfect example of someone having a desire to connect that was rewarded by the being from the light showing up to say "hello". And you were quite correct in your intuitive perception this was more than a greeting, it was a prophecy, as well, that the mother is seeing the future potential for betterment and cheering her on by telling her she will be okay.