The Rationale Behind Metaphor in Therapy The rationale behind metaphor in therapy is at least one step removed from the client’s conscious focus of an intervention and, thus, is a potential avenue for bypassing resistance. According to Zeig( 1980), a … Continue reading →
Listening Skills I am often asked by practitioners and other non therapy bods what is required to be a good therapist. One of the key components for me is that a therapist needs to have astute listening skills. I outline … Continue reading →
Beliefs in Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy We all have a huge number of beliefs about ourselves and the world. It can be difficult to draw the line between a fact and a belief. Individual clients will be coming to therapy with … Continue reading →
Behavioural & Cognitive Theorists Albert Bandura states that human psychological development occurs primarily through observational learning (witnessing others). Unlike in the Skinnerian scheme, no direct reinforcement of attitudes, traits and associated behaviours may be required. Simply vicarious reinforcement can alter … Continue reading →
Key Ericksonian Language Patterns Those who have worked or studied with Erickson often conceptualise his work in terms of the language he employed. This section focuses on two language patterns extensively used by Erickson: embedded commands and ambiguity. For further … Continue reading →
Personality traits Clients with personality traits associated with personality disorders may be particularly difficult to treat. For an outline of personality disorders please read yesterday’s blog. They have probably displayed the traits for many years and their lives have been … Continue reading →
Personality Disorders In terms of psychopathology, the Personality Disorders are the most relevant classification for the therapist. DSM IV lists ten different personality disorders: i)        Paranoid Personality Disorder           is a pattern of distrust and suspiciousness such that others’ motives are       … Continue reading →
Origins of Cognitive Therapy Cognitive Therapy was originated by Aaron Beck and, separately, Albert Ellis. Ellis later developed Rational Emotive Behavioural Therapy, which has very similar themes and approaches to Beckâs CT. CBT was later developed from these ideas. Beck … Continue reading →
Achieving empathy, congruence & unconditional positive regard To achieve empathy, acceptance, realness and create a safe place for the client, a therapist needs: *     An ability to be involved whilst also detached, to be outside as well as inside. *     To … Continue reading →
TWO MAJOR ASPECTS OF GESTALT THEORY 1. The Cycle of Awareness The circle represents the self/the person/the organism. Outside the circle is the environ-ment, i.e., everything which is not the person. The perimeter of the circle represents the boundary between … Continue reading →
