The Leading Edge in Emotionally Focused Therapy 106. When Clients Get Disoriented Between Positive Change and Remnants of Old Patterns
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Feb 6, 2025 The hosts discuss the emotional turbulence clients face when experiencing positive change while still tethered to old patterns. They emphasize the crucial role of therapists in guiding clients through this disorientation. The conversation touches on validation and attachment dynamics, highlighting how triggers can complicate progress. Insights into therapeutic interventions reveal the importance of communication and presence during these transitional moments. The notion that healing isn’t linear is central, promoting a mindful approach to navigating emotional complexities.
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Validating Disorientation
- Validate clients' disorientation when old patterns reappear amidst positive change.
- Acknowledge their vulnerability in sharing their uncertainty and thank them for it.
Utilizing Parts Work
- Explore clients' experience through parts work, acknowledging the part that sees positive change.
- Address the part struggling with unpredictability and the fear of old patterns resurfacing.
The Disorienting In-Between
- Clients experience a disorienting in-between stage where positive changes coexist with old patterns.
- This uncertainty creates a dilemma as their brains struggle to anticipate their partner's reactions.