Chapter 6: Helping Clients Become Their Own Therapists Flashcards
Adult Learning Theory
Model which emphasizes the importance of experiential learning and the value of reflection
Stages in Effective Learning
Experience
Observation
Reflection
Planning
Experience
Time of action, engagement, doing, might include role play or setting a behavioral assignment
Observation
Part of cycle where there is reflection upon what happened; includes process of reviewing a client’s thought diary or collecting feedback at the end of a meeting
Reflection
Making sense of what happened by relating it to previous experiences and knowledge
Planning
Phase when practical implications of a new understanding are considered; marks the time when plans are made, thus creating the basis for further experience; time of preparing next step, setting goals and tasks based on new understanding
Remembering
Need to be able to remember salient points from therapy, an understanding of memory and how we might help clients
Short Term Memory
Temporary Holding Point for information (20-30 seconds); information will be forgotten if it is not relevant or rehearsed enough to be transferred to long term memory
Long Term Memory
Depot where information may be held indefinitely;
To improve client’s recall
Relevance Focus Repetition Active engagement Memory aids Familiarity Working through the learning cycle
Relevance
Material that is perceived as important or meaningful is likely to be remembered
Focus
Distractions impair memory, clients benefit from being focused
Repetition
Repeating information and experiences will render them more memorable
Active Engagement
Getting feedback from the client would also have helped;
Memory Aids
We all benefit from notes, lists, etc. give client a handout restating rationale and techniques or relaxation
Familiarity
Reorganize memories in the light of previous experiences and beliefs
Working Through the Learning Cycle
Being cued to reflect on the exercise; consider what he learned and how he might take it forward
Questions to Ask after a Setback
How can I make sense of this?
What have I learnt from it?
With hindsight, what would I do differently?
Teach Clients to recognize early warning signs
When will I be at risk of this happening?
What are the signs?
What could I do to avoid losing control?
What could I do if I did lose control (damage limitation)
Possible Problems
Therapist maintains role of expert; client strives to remain a patient
Course of therapy not reflecting the learning cycle
Client wants to be fixed or parented
Relapse management is reserved until the end of treatment
Therapist feels pressured and skimps on relapse management
