Sample Program Description
Effective Techniques for Dealing with Highly Resistant Clients
Clifton Mitchell, Ph.D.
The successful management of resistance is the pivotal point of effective therapy. It is also a critical component in alleviating therapists’ stress. Although most therapists have been trained extensively in theoretical approaches, few have had extensive training in dealing with resistance. This is a fast paced, highly practical seminar designed to teach innovative approaches and ideas to prevent, avoid, and resolve resistance. These techniques are applicable across a wide array of clients and problems, and can be integrated with all theoretical approaches. Emphasis will be on “how to” aspects of resistance management, though the theory behind each approach is provided.
Specifically, this seminar will first present definitions and a model for resistance that empowers therapists in managing the problem. This is followed by a discussion of common mistakes therapists make that promote resistance and a discussion of the general principles for dealing with resistance. More specific approaches and techniques are then presented with particular attention given to utilizing the inherent power of language to circumvent resistance. Common client impasses such as “Yes, but…” and “I don’t know” responses will be addressed. Upon completion of the training, participants will have a broad array of techniques to add to their repertoire and to aid in reducing the stress that accompanies their most frustrating clients.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this activity, the learner will have the knowledge required to:
1. Differentiate between conventional and modern definitions of resistance. Participants will be
able to conceptualize resistance in a manner that empowers them to avoid, circumvent, and
utilize it for client benefit.
2. Describe and understand the most common errors therapists make that foster and
promote client resistance. Explain the pitfalls of over-questioning when working with
resistant clients and how to employ more effective alternative approaches.
3. Identify basic, overriding principles for dealing with resistance in therapeutic
environments. Explain the importance of tending to each principle in therapeutic
relationships in order to tactfully manage resistance.
4. Understand and explain the inherent power of language with regards to resistance. Employ
numerous specific linguistic techniques that circumvent resistance and create therapeutic
movement.
5. Understand methods for dealing with common difficulties such as “Yes, but…” and
“I don’t know” responses.
