In this episode we discuss the concept "use of self".  We discuss how the therapist can use their own emotional reactions, expectations, and perceptions in their therapeutic relationships.  We discuss how this tool opens new opportunities in therapy for self examination and awareness.  We explore some practical tools that can help therapists or other group members access this part o themselves and how to tactfully use this information in our intervention and support of our clients.  We use a case study to demonstrate how use of self can be used with difficult or ambivalent clients and how it helps our clients gain insight into the needs that are met by thinking and behavior that appear to be self-defeating. 

On this episode we discuss the important question, "What is your why?".  We discuss the use of self in our relationship with our clients and the necessity of self awareness. We explore common traps that counselors fall into and how we can unintentionally put our own needs ahead of clients.  Finally we discuss the role and process of quality clinical supervision as a way to work towards a clearer self awareness that will enhance your therapy practice and your client's experience.   

On this episode we explore the top 3 reasons for a "flat" group.  We discuss issues of safety and how to bring fears and anxiety to the surface so it can be directly addressed.  We discuss the role of the facilitator and how the expectations of our clients influence their participation and contributions to the group.  We discuss some practical tools to decentralize the group facilitator and encourage more direct interaction between clients.  We explore ways to encourage clients to identify personalized and collective group goals to influence a more client centered experience by translating goals into interpersonal terms.  Finally we discuss the effect of unacknowledged conflict and the role of fear and avoidance in experiencing more genuine and intimate relationships.  

On this episode we explore the foundation of perfectionist ideals.  We explore evidence of the unrealistic demands that our clients place on themselves and discuss ways to bring these ideals into their awareness.  We discuss how our values are formed and ulterior motives that influence our decisions from an evolutionarily psychology perspective.  We explore ways to utilize the therapeutic and group relationship to influence a new perspective.  Finally we discuss ways to practice unconditional self acceptance as a way to practice more congruence in our thinking, emotions and behavior. 

On this episode we discuss a basic overview of the differences between manualized and process oriented therapies.  We discuss the advantages and limitations of both therapies and share some practical tools to influence a more engaged and energized therapy experience for your clients.  

In this episode we discuss what it means to be in the "here and now".  We discuss how the therapists use of self can contribute to a more fulfilling experience for our clients and we present some practical tools to help us "access the moment" in group and individual therapy.

In this episode we explore the concept of impermanence and detachment.  We discuss how our rigid demands for specific conditions in our lives often contributes to the same disturbances we are attempting to resolve.  We introduce a helpful analogy that can be used by your clients and re-taught in your sessions as a way to help your clients take ownership of the concepts of detachment and acceptance.  

In this episode we explore the full meaning of "all behavior is purposeful".  We explore ways to restore ownership of thinking, feeling and behavior back to our clients and find ways to better influence congruence in our clients values and decisions.  We discuss some practical tools and examples of how to illustrate these concepts and give a brief overview of "how therapy works".