What is an Open Dialogue Session?
In the first session, the therapist and the client meet to start working together. They talk about why the client came to therapy and what they want to change or improve.
The therapist listens carefully and asks questions to understand the client's challenges better. They might suggest some practical strategies or exercises to try outside of therapy.
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It's like starting a teamwork project, where the therapist and the client join forces to make positive changes and find solutions that work best for them.
General First Questions
In the first therapy session, the therapist may ask questions like:
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1. What brings you here today?
Intention: To understand the person's reasons for seeking therapy.
Example: "Imagine you're in a movie of your life. What scene made you think, 'I need some help'?"
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2. Tell me about your goals or what you hope to achieve in therapy.
Intention: To identify what the person wants to work on.
Example: "If you could have a magic wand and change something about your life, what would it be?"
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3. Can you describe any challenges or difficulties you're facing?
Intention: To gain a better understanding of their struggles.
Example: "What's been the biggest hurdle for you recently, and how has it affected you?"
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4. Tell me about your support system or people in your life who are important to you?
Intention: To understand the person's social network and potential sources of support.
Example: "Who are the people you can turn to when you need someone to talk to or lean on?"
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5. How do you cope with stress or difficult emotions?
Intention: To explore the person's coping mechanisms and identify healthy strategies.
Example: "What are some activities or practices that help you relax and feel better when things get tough?"
6. Have you experienced any major life changes or significant events recently?
Intention: To gain insights into important life transitions or experiences.
Example: "Is there anything noteworthy that has happened to you lately that has had a big impact on your life?"
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These questions (1,2,3) are important because they help the therapist and person establish a connection, define the focus of therapy, and identify areas of growth and improvement. By exploring these initial questions, the therapist can tailor their approach to address the person's specific needs and goals, fostering a collaborative and effective therapeutic process.
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Questions 4, 5, 6 contribute to the therapist's understanding of the person's unique circumstances, strengths, and challenges. They help to build a comprehensive picture of the person's life and experiences, enabling the therapist to provide tailored support and guidance throughout the therapeutic journey.
Example of how a 1st session will look like?
In a cozy therapy room, you enter an inviting space that feels like the opening scene of a captivating movie. The therapist, with a warm smile, encourages you to share your story. The therapist asks you to imagine your life as a thrilling movie plot, prompting you to reflect on a pivotal moment that led you to seek support and guidance.
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As you share your experiences, comparing them to gripping movie scenes, the therapist listens attentively, genuinely curious about your desires and aspirations. They ask you to imagine rewriting your story, just like a master screenwriter, to make it more fulfilling and inspiring.
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Intrigued by the possibilities, you describe a revised scene where you conquer your fears, find inner peace, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. The therapist guides you with thoughtful questions and shares empowering strategies, akin to a talented director providing behind-the-scenes insights.
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Together, you explore your goals, challenges, and support systems. The therapist helps you envision a strong network of loyal and inspiring characters, mirroring those in movies, who rally around the protagonist. You leave the session with a renewed sense of hope and anticipation, feeling inspired to continue your journey.
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In conclusion, this example session demonstrates the power of storytelling and imagination in therapy. By using the metaphor of movies, it engages your creativity and taps into your desires for personal growth. The therapist serves as a compassionate guide, offering strategies and tools akin to the magic of cinema.
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With a commitment to rewriting your life story, you embark on an exciting adventure towards self-discovery and healing. This session marks a pivotal step in your therapeutic journey, where you feel empowered to create a life that mirrors the magic and triumph of the movies you love.
