The Whole Therapist Process Over Content
Nov 30, 2021
Abby and Kellee wrap up the season by diving into the importance of focusing on process over content in therapy. They discuss how therapists can identify when clients avoid processing and the cues that indicate a stuck focus on content. The hosts share concrete suggestions to facilitate deeper emotional work, highlighting the necessity of therapist self-awareness. They emphasize patience and trust in the therapeutic journey, using gardening metaphors to illustrate the nurturing of client growth. A reflective and impactful conclusion awaits!
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Pause Between Old And New Matters
- Clients often use content (work, logistics) to avoid sitting in the painful pause between what is no longer and what is not yet.
- Therapists must learn to tolerate that pause to access meaningful processing rather than staying on surface topics.
Intentionally Slow Down When Tired
- Notice when you're defaulting to content because you're tired and intentionally slow down to prioritize process.
- Practice presence and self-therapy to increase capacity for holding clients' processing moments.
Hold Structure While Following The Lead
- Hold gentle structure: remind clients of goals, ask what they want today, and take necessary charge when processing is needed.
- Offer choices while keeping a therapeutic aim so safety and movement into process co-exist.
