EXAMPLE ANSWER: Implementing new techniques

(LO 3.7 An ability to implement new techniques without direct supervision and critically reflect on this, e.g. assessing the suitability of the technique, outcome, and personal performance) of delivering that technique

Student answer 

from Anna Taylor, with thanks

As every client is unique there may be occasions in which a therapist has to ‘think on their feet’ and adapt based on the information gained within the pre-talk and/or metaquestioning.

An example of this was a session I planned which involved an induction based on visual imagery (a garden with bright colours and steps down to a lower section).

However during the metaquestioning I identified that the client was using audio based feedback – “I hear what you are saying but”… “she never listens to me”, “its as clear as a bell.” On further questioning the client revealed that they struggle to visualise and cannot get clear images within their head. I rapidly re-thought my initial plan. 

I established that the client had an affinity with the sea and changed the induction to being on a beach – feeling the sand and listening to the waves. I used the waves on the beach as the deepener and watched the client carefully to see if this was working. His physical responses indicated that it was and I continued the session. Throughout it I ensured that I continued using audio style descriptors. I had also had an initial plan of using a control panel – which I then also changed to a new behaviour generator with future facing where he could hear himself being assertive and confident.

At the end of the session the client reflected that he felt the session had gone well – he was able to ‘hear’ the difference. In a follow up session I used a similar technique but changed to him being on a boat which added the physical sensation of rocking with the waves and he also responded well on that occasion. I followed up that session a week later and he reported that he was still experiencing positive outcomes.

After this first session I reflected on the intervention and wrote it up in his client notes and my reflective journal. My concern was that this had gone well on this occasion but I wanted to ensure that I would be ready to think on the spot in future- I was concerned that I might ‘freeze’. I made some brief notes on the different sense perceptions and how I could adapt these with a range of combinations on a set of cue cards so that I can have these nearby in a session. I have never needed them – probably because the action of writing them meant that I had reflected and avoided this happening. I am sure as I develop as a practitioner I will develop more and more ideas for inductions which will enable me to adapt freely. Reflecting after a session, using peer support and the reflective journal are an essential part of the feedback loop for continuous development.