To effectively support a family dealing with resistance, what technique should a therapist use?

Using paradox as a technique in therapy can be particularly effective in supporting a family dealing with resistance. This approach involves presenting a situation or encouraging behaviors that seem counterintuitive, which can help clients see their issues from a new perspective. In the context of resistance, paradox can disarm clients, making them less defensive and more open to exploring their feelings and behaviors.

When a therapist employs a paradoxical intervention, it can create cognitive dissonance, prompting the family to reconsider their positions and possibly leading to insight and change. This technique invites clients to engage in dialogue that challenges their preconceived notions and behaviors, ultimately fostering a therapeutic environment where they feel more comfortable addressing their resistance.

In contrast, while client-centered therapy focuses on providing an empathetic environment, behavioral reshaping emphasizes modifying specific behaviors, and self-disclosure involves the therapist sharing personal experiences, these approaches may not specifically address the resistance encountered in families. Paradox has the unique ability to pivot the focus of the conversation, making it a powerful tool in scenarios where resistance is prevalent.