Examples of client resistance in therapy.

• Examples of client resistance in therapy His model explains the client’s tendency to be resistant in terms of absolute thinking and ‘irrational beliefs’. Through this, one can tell that the client’s resistance is the therapist’s problem and not the first’s. There’s also the risk of damaging the therapeutic alliance. Making excuses for their behavior. Complain about therapy activities; Express doubts about the therapy’s effectiveness; Challenge the therapist’s suggestions; Question the purpose of the Traditional definitions have their roots in Freudian theory and usually place resistance inside the client. This woman isn’t a client – simply a demonstration volunteer (and she and I wanted to demonstrate two very different things). Common indicators include: Vocal opposition: Arguing with or interrupting the therapist. Rather than resisting the force of your opponent’s energy and conflicting with it, you direct it and ‘help’ them… well, become more closely acquainted with the mat. Oct 1, 2024 · Client resistance in therapy is like a stubborn stain on your favorite shirt – it’s frustrating, hard to remove, and often shows up when you least expect it. This could be conscious or unconscious. Aug 28, 2015 · Examples of Therapeutic Impasse A client who becomes resistant to exploring vulnerable feelings or experiences to such a degree that he or she is also unwilling to explore the resistance tant issue in managing offender resistance to treatment is the avoidance of extended debates with offenders. " Such behavior is not simply an impediment to treatment, but also a potentially rich source of information about each client. Denying — The client is unwilling to recognize the problems, accept responsibility, or take advice; for example: Blaming others for their own problems. This information can be assessed and utilized to strengthen the therapeutic relationship, help the therapist better understand the ideographic obstacles to change, and devise Types of client resistance. Jan 16, 2024 · Response content resistance: When a client does engage, but seemingly deflects direct questions or certain topics, they may be demonstrating response content resistance. Resistance arises when clients are hesitant to engage fully, due to fears, mistrust, or apprehensions about therapy. Mar 6, 2025 · This article explores the fundamentals of motivational interviewing, highlighting – through example case studies – useful MI techniques for addressing what other therapies – but not MI – call client “resistance” in therapy. For example, a client struggles with opening up due to past negative experiences or fear of judgment. We also carefully and reflexively observed points where the phenomenon seemed to appear in the Jan 21, 2025 · 20 Confrontation in Therapeutic Communication Examples. Responding to the resistance to change is also viewed as the heart of all therapy because without it people wouldn't be in therapy in the first place. Identify underlying emotions: Resistance is generally fueled by fear and anxiety. Readiness to change is not a client trait, but a fluctuating product of interpersonal interaction. Manual for coding resistance in CBTfor anxiety. Resistance and "denial" are seen not as client traits, but as feedback regarding therapist Apr 11, 2025 · An obvious sign of transference is when a client directs emotions at the therapist. , alliance tensions), as well as segments where such resistance was not present (i. The client senses these negative reactions from the therapist, and may re-evaluate his own perception and subsequently rates the working alliance lower, as his “intimate” perception is not recipro-cated. Icebreakers and team-building exercises are crucial for fostering group resistant client, therapists and counselors should aim to use statements that encourage clients to open up. Building trust between the therapist and client. Here are some of the common causes of resistance in therapy: Apr 10, 2022 · Alternatively, resistance can appear in their therapeutic content when the client verbally opposes the therapist/therapy. Response To Treatment: The client displayed limited engagement and motivation for change. Strategies such as open communication, empathy & collaborative problem-solving can ease resistance & encourage adaptability. Describe and understand the most common errors therapists make that foster and promote client resistance. You first expose the denial pattern by naming it and describing the cognitive theme the client used. ” When counselors label a client’s behavior as resistant, typically, one of two things has occurred, Mitchell says. In both clinical examples, the client’s or the therapist’s perception of working alliance has temporally impacted the other Oct 1, 2024 · Skilled therapists must be prepared to navigate this resistance, often by acknowledging and validating the client’s feelings while gently persisting with the confrontation. This article highlights the relevance of selecting a strength Psychosocial interventions can be categorized on the basis of – philosophy (cognitive -behavioral, motivational or social, family, peer support), type of drugs or behaviours on which efficacy is proven, length of sessions (brief intervention vs extended intervention), modality of therapy application (by therapist, self-help or by peers), type Jul 4, 2014 · Client-centred resistance. [4] Nov 1, 2013 · Journal of Financial Planning: November 2013 The Journal of Financial Planning caught up with Edward Horwitz at FPA Experience 2013 in Orlando, where he presented his and Brad Klontz’s research findings on overcoming client resistance to change. Understanding my client’s resistance helped me understand him at a deeper level and, in turn, improved our therapeutic relationship and its outcome. Resistance is a normal part of the therapeutic process, and understanding the causes can help therapists and clients alike to overcome it. Below are some examples of how the practitioner can support the patient/clients state of resistance (i. A)miracle questions B)scaling questions C)deconstruction D)reframing resistance are similar, it is helpful for us to distinguish them so that we know whether the mismatch is about the relationship between the practitioner and client or resistance to behavior change. Acknowledging this and the presence of difficult emotions in the dynamics of client strength and autonomy, to be respected and vali-dated instead of confronted and resolved. ” Challenges To Progress: Lack of motivation and avoidance of social connections will likely impede Explore best practices for writing effective client progress notes in therapy, including SOAP, DAP, and BIRP templates. Mar 28, 2025 · Resistance to change often stems from fear, uncertainty & a disruption of routine, impacting personal & organizational growth. Depression (client) 2. Resistance is what happens when we expect or push for change when the client is not ready for that change. For example, Dougherty (2000) refers to resistance as a consultee’s failure to participate constructively in the process of consultation. Resistance is the phenomena that occurs in the therapeutic relationship when the patient refuses to complete tasks assigned by the therapist which would benefit the patient in improving their psychological situation. Dec 23, 2011 · This article presents a review of traditional definitions of resistance and then presents a conceptualization of client resistance from a narrative perspective. I’m sure, if you’ve worked with kids before, that you’ve seen a few (or all) of these examples of client resistance in your therapy sessions. This is attributable to the “win at all cost” mentality which characterizes crimi- The term resistance has an overly negative connotation, indicating a recalcitrant, oppositional tendency on the part of psychotherapy clients. Nov 19, 2018 · Peg September 4th, 2019 at 6:40 PM. Evaluate and choose between examples of these “resistance-lowering techniques. Cancellations happen, but consistent missed appointments could indicate that your client is experiencing resistance, even though they may not see it that way. Solution Focused Therapy can be applied to every interaction. be aware that resistance is a common scenario during brief intervention sessions and not an intentional act of defiance on the part of the client/patient. Jun 17, 2020 · For example, the motivational interview is based on adjusting the therapeutic style to the different stages of change that the client undergoes. For example, a resistant client receiving treatment for an alcohol problem might argue that "everyone else drinks", or they might continue to put themselves in risky situations such as spending time with friends who are using alcohol. Resistance can cause ruptures in the therapeutic alliance and hence it is important to be aware of the kinds of resistance that there are and how a therapist can work with a resistant client. A danger, as with any model, exists when the practitioner is not well versed on the model and either “gives up” or is incompetent with the practice. There is no way to make people like change. In essence, it’s any behavior or attitude that hinders the therapeutic process. Therapy progress notes are essential clinical documents for mental health professionals, providing a comprehensive record of a client’s treatment journey. Furgeson et al. She asks us to imagine the client was sitting in a chair across from us. Dec 11, 2024 · Overcome Client Resistance. If confrontation is handled poorly or comes at the wrong time, it can erode the trust between therapist and . Resistance can also include the therapist being nonproductive in session and therefore triggering a client’s reaction of resistance. Therapeutic Use of Resistance: In psychodynamic therapy, resistance isn't merely an obstacle but also an avenue for exploration. Understanding the various types of client resistance is critical for therapists in order to successfully address and overcome these problems throughout treatment. They are experiencing some stress, struggle, or discomfort and use resistance to communicate it. • The client seems distracted (looking at watch, cell phone, etc. "Resistance is defined as psychological forces aroused in the client th at restrain acceptance of influence (acceptance of the counselor's suggestion) and are generated by the way the Jun 1, 2024 · Just like conflict in group therapy, resistance is not necessarily a bad thing. Therapists can overcome resistance and foster positive therapeutic change by establishing a strong therapeutic relationship, paying attention to client signals, and Oct 2, 2020 · From then on, the young man’s resistance was gone, and he voluntarily put more effort into the workbook. , Citation 2009). The phenomena that comprise resistance in therapy are described and discussed from a cognitive viewpoint. A client who is resistant to therapy, then, can present a major challenge for their provider. Aug 8, 2024 · This type of resistance manifests as a client impeding the therapeutic process in order to avoid discussing specific subjects or because they do not see the value in therapy altogether. Jun 29, 2013 · To summarize, resistance, or whatever we choose to call it, is a natural part of the change process. A client engaging in sabotage could consistently cancel sessions, and one showing transference might express anger towards the therapist that reflects Jul 7, 2022 · Client resistance refers to any barrier that a client presents, either consciously or unconsciously, that impedes the achievement of therapeutic or coaching goals. More technically, resistance refers to defensive processes that emerge within the therapy relationship itself, that 33 impede the shared task of exploration and inquiry. Resistance can manifest in various ways during therapy sessions. This is an excellent article, clear and concise. Psychotherapy, 49(2), 163–172. For example, a client might disagree with a therapist's approach or terminology. Enhance your clinical documentation skills with practical examples and tips for improving care continuity and treatment outcomes. When you understand that resistance is not a problem with the client, you can see it as an opportunity to use therapeutic skills. The list should not be longer than 6 items. Jun 1, 1994 · Rather than viewing client resistance merely as an annoying impediment to the "real" work of therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapists would do well to look at client resistance as important information in its own right -- information that can shape the case formulation, increase the therapist's accurate empathy, and suggest interventions that Jun 9, 2013 · A graphic example of counselor over-reaction to provocative client behavior was captured in the feature film, Good Will Hunting (Van Sant, 1997). Mar 18, 2024 · examples of client resistance in therapy. 3. Resistance Intervention Guide: Approach resistance with curiosity, not judgment. Resistance in therapy can be a difficult problem to address, but it doesn’t have to be. While CBT strives to be collaborative, in the presence of client resistance, therapist reactions to noncompliance, disagreement etc. What are the primary areas you would like to focus on during therapy? Therapy is a collaborative process, and this question helps the client to feel like a valued partner in the therapy process. 1037/a0023200 [Google Scholar] Westra HA, Aviram A, Kertes A, Ahmed M, & Connors L (2009). Denying — The client refuses to acknowledge the issues, take ownership, or heed counsel; an example of this is when they place blame for their own problems on others. Nov 21, 2023 · Resistance in therapy may be a conscious or subconscious choice and may be caused by a variety of reasons. Self-esteem (counselor). ” Differentiate between “sustain-talk” and “discord. Client reluctance and resistance Client resistance and reluctance are considered as two major challenges faced by a social worker while engaging with an involuntary client. In Understanding Psychotherapy: Fifty Years of Client-Centered Theory and Practice. For instance, small talk (about trivial topics like entertainment, rumors or the weather) may not be viewed as harmless in a counseling context, but rather a deliberate Jan 13, 2025 · I hope that I can equip you with some tools in your tool belt to help if you are dealing with client resistance. The purpose of this paper is to consider client resistance from a client-centered view of psychotherapy. Realistic May 15, 2025 · For example, the therapist may dialogue with a co-therapist (third-party conversation) about the child’s resistant behaviors in a nonchalant way, which eliminates the power of resistance. Unlock the power of confrontation in therapy with these impactful examples. Client resistance to transference analysis is a crucial issue in the psychodynamic psychotherapies where transference is central to the work. , can often take the form of “convincing client-centered and respectful counseling atmosphere. Apr 26, 2023 · It’s very common to have ambivalence about any sort of change, including the types of changes your clients may be working towards in therapy. Jan 25, 2025 · A client might object to therapy, for example, if they think that change is undesirable or impossible. Often, there is a legitimate concern pushing the client towards these resistance behaviors in group therapy, whether they realize it or not. ” MI - The Spirit (3) : Client ¾Responsibility for change is left with the client ¾Change arises from within rather than imposed from without ¾Emphasis on client’s personal choice for deciding future behavior ¾Focus on eliciting the client’s own concerns Jan 26, 2025 · To effectively manage client resistance during therapy, therapists must demonstrate empathy, flexibility, and a thorough understanding of the underlying causes of resistance. Mar 7, 2023 · Considering your clients’ attachment adaptation can give greater insight into why a client may be struggling with resistance. Cognitive behavioural therapy, for example, is usually short and focuses primarily on symptom reduction through the development of coping skills and expectations of self-efficacy, with little emphasis on the therapist-client relationship and the emotions that this relationship might evoke Aug 30, 2024 · Common Causes of Resistance. Client resistance may take the form of insulting a therapist, lying, attempting to sabotage therapy sessions, or failing to show up for sessions. Idealizing Transference Characteristics : In idealizing transference, the client sees the therapist as perfect or all-knowing, often placing them on a pedestal. Jun 14, 2024 · Understanding client resistance. The author makes recommendations for using techniques consistent with narrative therapy to address client resistance during the relationship-building stage. Very encouraging to take an objective step back to examine oneself and the client when meeting resistance. Client Resistance. In fact, research suggests that client resistance is an opportunity for deeper work. In recent years in the field Resistance occurs as a result of a ''…negati ve interpersonal dynamic between the therapist and the client" (Otani, 1989, p. Oct 10, 2019 · For example, an “overt” reaction of a child who does not want to attend family therapy serves a purpose to be the “covert” reaction of the parents in an act as a cooperative source within the family dynamic. As a fan of counseling, you may recall the scene. In this article, I explain three different types of resistance and how to help clients confront their resistance in a productive way. Ironically, resistance signals t … Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). For related ACT tools, see our Thought Defusion and Becoming Psychologically Flexible worksheets. " "You really cannot think of a possible approach that you can take that appears better than what you are doing. These obstacles may come from cultural and societal norms, internal barriers, and client resistance: Cultural and Societal Barriers most notable challenges namely resistance and reluctance, mistrust, and the power structure in involuntary relationships. Resistance in therapy is relatively common. As a young therapist, I remember feeling increasingly frustrated with client resistance. Such definitions view resistance as representing the client's efforts to repress anxiety-provoking memories and insights, or efforts to fight the therapist's influence. Rather, resistance arises out of conflict or discord within the patient. Jan 10, 2025 · 1. Resistance in Therapy: Causes and Solutions. e Westra HA, Aviram A, Connors L, Kertes A, & Ahmed M (2012). way of viewing resistance…it is a special form of communication from the client, and when handled skillfully, it can actually be used to move therapy forward. The therapist is therefore highly attentive and responsive to the client's motivational signs. As such, the manner in which the therapist responds to resistance to change greatly influences the amount of resistance (Moyers & Rollnick, 2002). 6. For example, if a client cries and accuses the therapist of hurting their feelings for asking a probing question, it may be a sign that a parent hurt the client regarding a similar question/topic in the past. PCCS Books, 2000. Understanding and appro-priately addressing resistance is an important yet frequently overlooked component of effec-tive therapy. Our job is to figuratively move our own chair over beside the client so that we are looking in the same direction. , 2021 stated, “Involuntary clients and hostile relationships have a very powerful presence in statutory social work. ” Practice responding to client statements of “resistance. Providing justifications for their actions. This article delves into the multifaceted nature of client resistance. Acknowledging and displaying genuine concern and compassion for the child Jun 1, 1994 · Understanding the resistance of the client can be useful to understand the therapeutic relationship, the causes of resistance and other problems it creates, or to motivate the client with the help This principle helps a client see and feel how current behaviours prevent personal goals or are inconsistent with their values. of client’s thinking. Guiding clients to explore their own ability reason, desire, and need to change is far more effective in reaching resistant client than pondering on what question to ask a resistant client (and potentially causing even more distress). Whatever your definition, one thing is sure, resistance is negatively related to treatment success ( Beutler, Moleiro & Talebi, 2002). But sometimes clients can show, if not quite such antipathy, at least a measure of contrariness or ‘resistance’. It is the way in which clients present themselves to the world in general and to the therapist in 2 days ago · Along with learning about the client’s degree of self-efficacy and self-esteem, this question is useful for creating treatment approaches and goals. Ignoring real-life concerns. Examples of responses that interpret “I don’t know” at face value include: "At this moment, you are really stumped as you search for an answer. While resistance can stem from various sources, four common causes often emerge in coaching relationships: fear of change, lack of trust in the coach or process, misalignment of goals, and past negative experiences . Resistance isn’t defiance—it’s a protective mechanism. Some signs of resistance in session can be arguing, interrupting, ignoring, and exhibiting Resistance to change comes up in our work often and clients who exhibit resistance are less likely to change. • The therapeutic focus should be on the client’s desired future rather than on past What is Therapeutic Resistance? A situation in which either the client or the therapist has attitudes, beliefs, and resultant actions that impede therapeutic change / improvement. Sep 27, 2016 · The client relationship types are widely applicable to therapy, regardless of theoretical orientation, making them one of the most useful concepts in marriage and family therapy. Resistance is considered the product of the client’s ambivalence as well as the interaction between the therapist and client. To deal with resistance, CBT therapists use methods like behavioural activation, cognitive restructuring, and psychoeducation. Those fighting styles teach that when your opponent pushes, you pull. Ellis stresses the importance of client’s global statements about themselves, stating that such terms Jan 15, 2025 · Addressing and overcoming this resistance is crucial for successful therapy outcomes. However, there is patient resistance you can work with, and resistance you should resist for your own sanity. Here are the types of client resistance: 1. These clinical notes are crucial in tracking client progress, documenting therapeutic interventions, and capturing detailed information that supports continuity of care across therapy sessions. Taking the time to discuss these Client resistance to psychotherapeutic efforts often has a demoralizing effect on the nurse therapist, especially when the resistance crops up in a group therapy setting. Apr 29, 2024 · In the video below and in this post, I discuss some accounts of resistance, discuss managing resistant clients and handling resistance from an approach to therapy from Modern Group Analytic perspective, a theory of group therapy that is a technique-based approach in clinical psychology developed around the work of Spotniz and Ormont. Understanding the root causes of resistance is crucial for coaches to effectively address and mitigate it. For instance if a child is 4 when their parents divorce, they are likely to believe that they are unlovable (inaccurate but age appropriate interpretation due to the egocentricity of that age) whereas if a child is 12 when parents divorce and dad leaves, the child might develop a belief that all men leave In therapy, active listening is an art form, in which the clinician picks up subtle hints about the client’s values over time, sometimes without even realizing it. In this post, I present a review of these client types, and I explain their relevance to and usefulness for all therapeutic sessions. If the client is exhibiting resistance, it is the job of the therapist to assist in reducing it as much as it is the client’s responsibility to change their behavior. Resistance is also used to describe situations in the consulting relationship where the consultee does not do what the consultant suggests. Approach #1: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) The first approach we’re going to explore when dealing with client resistance is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). What is an example of resistance in therapy?Interrupting — The client repeatedly interrupts the therapist by talking over them or cutting them off. The basic tenets that inform Solution-Focus Brief Therapy are as follows: • It is based on solution-building rather than problem-solving. Any opposition Mar 8, 2023 · A deep understanding of resistance should be a part of every therapist’s toolbox, regardless of the tools they employ in their work. Motivational interviewing is a directive, client-centered counseling style for eliciting behavior change Feb 12, 2017 · In particular, SFT is useful for the “resistant” client/system as it is so client-centered. Difficult as these interactions may be, “resistance is par for the course as a clinician,” says Adriana Jodoin , a licensed clinical psychologist who provides therapy to clients in New York and Massachusetts. 10. Teyber and Teyber (2017) also identify the utility of client resistance, noting that resistance may represent an acquired functional cop-ing strategy for the client, and having the option of apply-ing resistance may make therapy feel less Resistance Defined: Social Interaction Theory a mismatch between the therapist's mode of influence and the client's current willingness to accept that influence Resistance is borne out of the interaction “if what you’re doing with the client is not working, then do something else because your interaction is creating resistance,” Jul 30, 2020 · Resistance may be indicative of the interpersonal developmental level of the patient. This resistance can stem from fear, insecurity, or a lack of readiness to confront their issues. As Miller, Zweben and Forcehimes explain in Treating Addiction, “Resistance is not a challenge to try to win the argument but an immediate in-session feedback from your client to try something different. ” look at client resistance as important information in its own right -- information that can shape the case formulation, increase the therapist's accurate empathy, Recognize how a staff person might influence and increase client “resistance. Common forms of resistance in therapy. For example, 1. working from the client’s understandings of her/his concern/situation and what the client might want different. Aug 21, 2019 · to each concerning whether it was a client self statement or a clinical observation. You will want to review all the worksheets in this book for the most effective results when considering each client's resistant behavior and the possible factors that underlie these behaviors. By examining and interpreting resistance, therapists can help clients Clients sometimes work in opposition to their therapists, a phenomenon known as "resistance. As the therapist, there are Client resistance means unwillingness or opposition to change and growth in therapy sessions. Client willingness and ability to examine the client-therapist interaction include some of the following forms of resistance. While the latter signifies a mechanical issue involving the client’s ambivalence, resistance to the relationship signifies a hiccup in the level Mar 13, 2025 · Client Resistance. This article emphasizes the inevitability and ubiquity of resistance and argues that it should be greeted as a therapist's friend, not as an enemy. Alternatively, the client might roll their eyes or be silent, dismissive, or overtly critical of the therapist. The understanding in Clients' resistance relates negatively to their retention and outcomes in psychotherapy; thus, it has been increasingly identified as a key process marker in both research and practice. Dealing with these clients requires patience and the ability to build trust gradually. Dec 27, 2023 · These may include dealing with client resistance, maintaining a non-judgmental and empathetic stance, and staying true to the spirit of motivational interviewing. Often resistance leads to poor The feelings the client evokes in the therapist with his/her resistance will give you a hint what the resistance is about. , not feeling the need to or wanting to change). Building Rapport and Involvement. A client may resist the therapeutic process as a whole or put up defenses in response to tough topics. General therapeutic resistance resistant attitudes / behaviors that likely would impede therapeutic change / improvement with virtually any approach From a client-centered perspective, Patterson and Hidore (1997) claim that client resistance is a manifestation of the client’s fear about negotiating the relationship with the therapist. . For example, a mother who struggles with obesity and overeating may complain about low energy and struggle to maintain a consistent exercise routine. The Mitchell defines resistance as something “created when the method of influence is mismatched with the client’s current propensity to accept the manner in which the influence is delivered. This Apr 4, 2017 · How to deal with client resistance. Overcoming these challenges requires flexibility, patience, and skillful use of motivational interviewing techniques. Due to this coerced nature of entering treatment, counselors may face increased resistance from a client in therapy. Client or patient resistance in psychotherapy has been the concern of therapists since the time of Freud. In this short video, Ed explains the research and offers an example of a reflective listening response, which he and Klontz write about in their However, whenever therapy involves the use of homework, there exists the possibil-ity that the client will resist completing it (Goldfried, 1982). resistance in therapy from the perspective of being both therapist and client. His resistance offered us both the opportunity to grow in our respective roles. The stuckness could be a result of the client’s therapy experience. Physical withdrawal: Body language that shows discomfort or detachment. When a client appears to be resistant to therapy, understanding the process of change and identifying the stage of change of the What does the Client elicit from others? What is the threat? if the therapist is sensing resistance on the part of the Client, it may be helpful to ask the following question, what is the threat or danger if you talked with me about that- what could go wrong between us? Resistance is what happens when we expect or push for change when the client is not ready for that change. The cases of Brian, Julie, and Victoria are reviewed to illustrate similar and contrasting manifestations of resistance, and suggestions for further individualized conceptualization and intervention are presented. I believed, at the time, that resistance was something I needed to push aside Feb 13, 2021 · Understanding the resistance of the client can be useful to understand the therapeutic relationship, the causes of resistance and other problems it creates, or to motivate the client with the help They may be defensive, evasive, or openly resistant to therapeutic interventions. Establishing a strong rapport is essential for overcoming initial resistance in ABA therapy. Signs of Client Resistance in Therapy. When resistance emerges, there always are good reasons the client is not ready to change in the way we are Feb 1, 2002 · The term resistance has an overly negative connotation, indicating a recalcitrant, oppositional tendency on the part of psychotherapy clients. And, the very thing that brought a client to therapy can also often be the thing they are most reluctant to change. Unpublished manual. For example, if a client has more of an avoidant attachment adaptation, then when they get overwhelmed or stressed, they may have a tendency to pull away from your support and be more combative to any intervention that In this article, I’ll share examples of how being playful with your clients can diffuse resistance, strengthen the therapeutic alliance, and spark breakthroughs in your sessions. For example, a client might say the following in response to a therapist suggesting relaxation exercises: “I have never found that to work… It takes a lot of effort, and I don’t seem to get the benefit. Client's Goals: In the client's own words record what the goals for treatment are. e. It is important to note that interpersonal resistance is not a client problem but a dyadic one, as Cognitive models of resistance Ellis’s (1985) model of resistance . Psychological resistance can take various forms, each with its own qualities and ramifications. it feels real bad. [8] For example, a very directive client can make the therapist feel very passive. Nov 28, 2023 · For example, a client showing reluctance might come to therapy but is silent about their emotions, while a client exhibiting opposition might strongly disagree with proposed treatment plans. An example of discrepancy could be someone being a smoker and also believing smoking is bad for you. You can only make them feel less Oct 1, 2024 · Group Therapy Activities for Resistant Clients. , 2011), it was of interest to sample therapy segments that reflected client opposition or resistance to the direction of the therapist/therapy (i. Our intent is to see what the client sees and try to experience Feb 17, 2016 · To illustrate, directive behavior of the therapists were found to lead a slight, yet significant increase in the client resistance. When therapists take the time to connect with their clients, it helps alleviate Jan 14, 2025 · Recognizing and Understanding Client Resistance. When the therapist pays attention to their passive feelings, it can make him/her understand this behavior of the client as resistance coming In deconstructing resistance or conducting an analysis of its use, behavioral psychologists find therapists and consultants use the word in the context of therapeutic failure. Dec 1, 2021 · The more dug in the patient’s resistance, the more frustrating (and headache-inducing) it can be for the therapist – even though we know the defense is normal and, to a certain degree, a positive part of the therapeutic process. Lighthearted play is especially useful with guarded clients who equate emotional openness with painful vulnerability. To speak of resistance as the client’s problem is to miss the relational Nov 11, 2024 · One of the toughest challenges that a psychotherapist encounters is the resistant nature of their client (s). Learn how to document client progress, setbacks, and treatment plans while ensuring clear, objective, and ethical record-keeping. Rather, resistance is a function of how the therapist relates to the client’s relationship to the problem. Though rapport formation, empathy, and unconditional positive regard are the trio in establishing a firm therapeutic alliance, these basic ingredients sometimes fail to make the client stay and continue their session (s). Job situation (client) 3. This study compared therapists' postsession ratings of resistance with those of trained observers in the context o … a situation and the client ignores, interrupts or sidetracks. Inspired by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), this resource pairs wonderfully with this therapeutic approach, but it’s also effective for clients with anxiety, depression, OCD, or any condition in which avoidance plays a role. Inherent in her response was that resistance is not a problem clients have with therapy. In solution-focused therapy, the clearer the goal, the easier it is to measure progress. therapy, which in turn affects the termination process. When they pull, you push. Differentiate between conventional and modern definitions of resistance and be able to conceptualize resistance in a manner that empowers therapists to avoid, circumvent, and utilize it for client benefit. For example, Bischoff & Tracey define resistance as "any behavior But don't resist resistance, says Hanna. For example if the client was blaming their doctor for needing to be in therapy, The Formula For Success A Rational, Directive, Supportive Approach Disaster Success Pre Identifying the level of readiness in a resistant client is crucial and ascertaining whether clients are willing and ready for a change is a prudent approach in dealing with resistant clients. The question may be phrased similar to the Journal of Clinical Psychology, 2002. ” What Is An Example Of Client Resistance? Interrupting — The client frequently talks over or cuts the therapist off. Collusive Resistance; This type arises when therapists avoid addressing painful topics due to their own emotional reactions or biases. When resistance is worked through, the likelihood for positive outcomes is increased (Mahalik, 2002). However, engaging resistant clients in a group setting requires some special considerations. "That's not therapy; that's called war. I’ve heard her use a wonderful image to capture this. to be used in order to keep the client from becoming even more resistant. How do we know when the client is being resistant? Signs of resistance: • The client may interrupt you. As the therapist becomes more experienced with handling resistance, it becomes less threatening. Resistance can occur in the the world through the client’s eyes. 459). "When the client is resisting the therapist and the therapist starts getting irritated with the client, then you have two people resisting each other," he says. "Resistance" in counseling refers to a client's behaviors that are in opposition to making desired changes. It is not particularly helpful to think of resistance as opposition between therapist and patient. emphasises the dysfunctionality . Client resistance may represent a client’s attempt to impose a familiar style of interaction on the therapy relationship based on the client’s comfort Aug 15, 2017 · If you don’t ask for feedback regularly from clients, this is the time to have a feedback session. It arises as a normal, expected product of the interaction. Jun 18, 2017 · We structure this list in terms of specific examples of resistance, followed by suggestions for ways to address each type of resistance in therapy. ” Resistance Style: The Silent Youth Given previous research linking alliance ruptures to subsequent client outcome expectations (Westra et al. " "It is difficult and scary to actually say aloud the truth about" Dec 16, 2024 · Enter the resistant client—an individual grappling with internal conflicts about change, whose behaviors, from missed appointments to skillfully deflected conversations, erect invisible walls against the very healing they seek. When client resistance is conscious, the client is knowingly attempting to undermine the process, often indicating a misalignment between the coach or therapist’s goals and the Jul 23, 2024 · Example: A client may develop romantic or sexual feelings towards the therapist, which can reveal deeper issues related to intimacy and relationships in the client’s life. For example, a client may resist therapy if they believe change is difficult or scary. For example, the client may not be satisfied with therapy, may be losing their motivation for therapy, or may be considering termination. ). Although the term resistance as it is known today in psychotherapy is largely associated with Sigmund Freud, the idea that some patients "cling to their disease" [3] was a popular one in medicine in the nineteenth century, and referred to patients whose maladies were presumed to persist due to the secondary gains of social, physical, and financial benefits associated with illness. The main character, Will, played by Matt Damon, is an extremely intelligent but emotionally disturbed young man with mathematical genius. If the counselor chooses to en-ter into verbal combat with a resistant offender, the latter only escalates his or her efforts to win the debate. Aug 5, 2024 · Questions to Ask a Resistant Client | Examples of Questions Counselors Ask ; Client-counselor relationship is all about collaboration, but even the best counselors will encounter a resistant client. When a client who Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) is an adaptation of motivational interviewing (MI) that includes one or more client feedback sessions in which normative feedback is presented and discussed in an explicitly nonconfrontational manner. Oct 31, 2022 · Discover 5 types of client resistance in therapy, how therapists can address difficult clients, and strategies to facilitate resistance to change for effective counseling. In recent years in the field Nov 9, 2015 · In some martial arts, the answer is no. Quote (Progress): “I don’t know, I don’t think I can. Jun 8, 2024 · By examining the nature and themes of resistance, the therapist and the client can gain profound insights into underlying issues and conflicts. Therapist emotional reactions and client resistance in cognitive behavioral therapy. Specific Examples Or Instances: Client keeps deflecting from talking about certain issues. Resistance usually comes when a particularly distressing and uncomfortable issue is brought up during a therapy or counselling session. 3 Other therapist behavior leading client resistance for change might be illustrated as trying to investigate sensitive issues too early in the sessions, verbal or behavioral expression of judge, and lack of a response to a question about client resistance. Group therapy can be particularly beneficial for resistant clients, as it provides peer support and normalizes their experiences. • The client may get defensive. Each scenario illustrates the delicate balance between empathy and insight, offering a nuanced approach to fostering growth and self-awareness. " Instead, suggests Hanna, praise the client's resistance. Unreasonable dislike for the client Nov 14, 2023 · For example, resistance may involve the client disagreeing with the therapist, withdrawing, sidetracking, interrupting, or even criticizing the therapist or the therapy, in response to a therapist being directive (Westra et al. Roll With Resistance. ” Explore five (5) resistance-lowering techniques. Resistant clients are some of the most challenging However, whenever therapy involves the use of homework, there exists the possibil-ity that the client will resist completing it (Goldfried, 1982). Ask open-ended, non-threatening questions like, “What feels difficult about this process right now?” Normalize feelings by saying, “It’s okay to feel unsure or even Apr 12, 2024 · Realistic Resistance; This occurs when clients consciously oppose therapeutic initiatives they do not understand or accept. Client Ambivalence: Confront gently, “I sense you’re torn between management of resistance and the understanding of ambivalence. This can manifest as resistance from the client. Resistance is not something that exists in a client in a static sense. Jan 20, 2015 · As the client blames others be sure to grunt and moan and say things like, “Oh yeah, I hate it when teachers aren’t fair. And for this purpose ___________ may be introduced in the goal-setting process. Counselors must first recognize that resistance has occurred before they can help the client confront it in order to progress in therapy. Challenges to Assertive Communication in Therapy ‍While assertive communication offers many benefits in therapy, several challenges can arise when encouraging assertiveness in clients. ” or just use standard person-centered reflections, “You’re saying that being around your teacher really sucks . Jan 4, 2017 · Resistance is a term mental health professionals use to describe a group of clients who refuse to learn, grow, change, or progress in therapy. hzag yoduj zsw akbyzke dfnvp yvonz ticgmn hoeef dbnn yaqvp