Sunday, January 29, 2012

Your world view

When reading the book Therapeutic Metaphors by David Gordon I came across a point that made me think about my clients and the patients in hospital that I work with. 

Gordon states: '...having a set model of the world can be both a help and a hindrance.  The advantage of our relatively stable world models is that they free us from continually testing and retesting our environment.  The disadvantage is that a set world model is relatively inflexible and, so, limiting.'

We therapists must challenge our set models of the world, sometimes put them to the side, in order to understand the client and to meet the client where they are at.  

It is interesting during group therapy to observe and assist two different set world model people interacting with one another.  It can be such a beautiful, educational experience for all to share in. 

If your set model of the world is that of being forced to grow up too young, or being in and out of different homes, or any abuse you may become used to, it can be difficult to accept love because it is not a part of your set model. I like to keep in mind this idea of having a different world model and my job is better understanding my clients world model, not trying to get them to know mine.

I feel that this has always come easy to me, however, it was nice to read about it and be reminded of what my main job is in the beginning of therapy.  The problem with short term treatment is by the time I understand their world view they may be getting discharged.  Maybe the therapy is just the knowing and understanding?  Maybe just listening, really really listening to someone's story is all the therapy they may need in the brief moment? 

It is easier in private practice to spend the time exploring the client's world view.  Sometimes I have to remind myself to 'slow down' since we do have more than 5-7 days (the average stay in the hospital).  I feel art therapy is such a safe, and amazing way to explore the client's world view.  I look forward to going to work and helping others.  I am so very lucky to be doing what I love for a living.