Effective Techniques for Dealing with Highly Resistant Clients

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 webinar 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...Read more of resistance management, though the theory behind each approach is provided.

Specifically, this webinar 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…” 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. Less...

Learning Objectives

• 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.
• 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.
• Describe methods for dealing with common difficulties such as “Yes, but…” responses.
• Identify basic, overriding principles for dealing with resistance in therapeutic environments and explain the importance of tending to each principle in therapeutic relationships in order to tactfully manage resistance.

Target Audience

Learning Levels

• All Levels

Saturday, January 14, 2023

11:00 AM EST - 02:15 PM EST