(Corey p.109.) Clarifying irrational conclusions and reactions assists the client to gain a more healthy perspective.
Therapeutic Strategies and Interventions.
The therapeutic process begins with the therapist and client building a relationship "based on a sense of deep caring, involvement, and friendship. Therapeutic progress is only possible when there is an alignment of clearly defined goals between the therapist and client." (Corey p.117.) Initially, the therapeutic focus is strength based, concentrating on the person rather than the perceived problems that brought them to therapy. The therapist attends and listens to the client while watching for both verbal and non-verbal cues, and providing a "wide angle" perspective that will eventually help the client to view the world differently. (Corey p.118.).
The therapeutic task progresses to stage two, which involves exploring the individual's personal dynamics. Subjective and objective interviews are conducted to gain a larger view of the client's outlook. The subjective interview allows the client to tell his or her life story while the therapist listens with empathy and understanding, taking note of clues that indicate the persons approach to life and overall concerns. .
The objective interview enables the therapist to be the "lifestyle investigator," discovering many factors about the person's background. The study may begin with a family constellation and sibling birth order analysis in order to explore the familial history. In addition, an evaluation of early recollections may prove valuable in gaining tools to interpret and identify the client's convictions about themselves and others. .
The therapist may complete an assessment of personality priorities to help the client understand how they cope with others in their world. The therapist would not attempt to convince the client to change their personality priorities, but rather to recognize how their behavior causes others to react and the emotional price of maintaining those priorities.