Emotionally Focused Couples Paper - Bshs 385

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The three stages in the model of interviewing

“The three-stage model of interviewing includes exploration, clarification, and action” (Evans, et al., 2011, p. 13). As the interviewer, it is important to understand that one will cycle through the interview stages until the desired result is achieved. The exploration stage consists of building a safe environment, free from any judgment, and is trusting; thus building a respectful therapeutic relationship between the helper and the client (Evans, et al., 2011). Susan made Josh and Patty feel safe through her attending behaviors, active listening skills and remaining self-aware of how her interaction with them changed the process of the session. She managed their emotions by asking the appropriate amount of open and closed-ended questions, which allowed them to talk freely without fear of retaliation from each other, and by reflecting on their statements she ensured there were no misconstrued messages. In the clarification phase, Susan defined the problems at hand by paraphrasing and summarizing throughout their interaction together to make sure her interpretation of what they were dealing with was evident while confronted any inconsistencies without discernment (Evans, et al., 2011). She shared her personal perception of the conversation, and provided adequate feedback, as well as encouraged Patty to disclose information about her fears and insecurities. Self-disclosure empowered her to share more details, and it made Josh realize that it was not him that she was shutting out it was her past that she was trying to escape. Action is the final stage, which aids the helper to identify a plan of care for goals that have been set (Evans, et al., 2011). Susan provided recommendations for Patty to continue to work on her fears to decrease the “roar” she has going on in her mind with her primary therapist. She also reminds them to take little steps to build a safe haven for each other and also provides constructive feedback about how strong they are in their conviction and commitment for one another before the interview ended.

Thoughts

Although they were on a stage, behind a camera, and with a live audience Susan made both Josh and Patty feel safe and comfortable in the environment they were put into, and it appeared that they did not even notice. I would not choose this environment, but by watching this video, it helped me gain more knowledge and understanding of the interview process. The video also gave me hope that I am not a hopeless case that cannot be fixed, and that my marriage is worth fighting for regardless of the past. It reinforced my thoughts that I allow fear control me, and fear is only as big as I permit it to grow in my mind, but once faced I realize it was not as scary as my head made me believe. Patty and Josh were willing participants and recognized they needed help because what they were doing was no longer working for them. As a counselor, my only hope is to provide my services as well as Susan did to help people realize their emotions do not control them, and they have the power to make a change to better their lives. I know with more education, skill, patience, and experience I can help other people to accept the past for what it was, and find peace in what they have experienced.

Conclusion

Susan used a multitude of techniques that provided a safe environment for Patty and Josh to discuss openly the problems they have been running into in their marriage. She locked into their core emotions that enhanced and evoked more responsive interactions, which brought their issues out in the open where they can confront them, and set a plan in motion to come to a resolution. They learned to reach for each other instead of reverting into isolation where resentment can build causing more destructive behaviors in their already fragile relationship.

References

Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy [Video file]. (2009). Milton H. Erickson Foundation. http://search.alexanderstreet.com.contentproxy.phoenix.edu/view/work/1824849

Evans, D. R., Hearn, M. T., Uhlemann, M. R., & Ivey, A. E. (2011). Essential interviewing: A programmed approach to effective communication (8th ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole

Psychotherapy.net. (2011). Sue Johnson on Emotionally Focused Therapy. Retrieved on 08/13/16 from https://www.psychotherapy.net/interview/sue-johnson-interview