Observational Counseling Techniques

Most techniques that counselors use involve some form of observation. Whether the counselor is observing the client's behavior or the client is self-observing, observational counseling techniques are important in therapy. Counselors may have clients keep a record of certain behaviors, moods or thoughts. The specific observational counseling technique will depend largely on the problem or behavior that the client seeks to change.

Automatic Thoughts

• Thoughts influence behavior and feelings, so one important observational counseling technique is having clients record automatic thoughts. Counselors may encourage clients to observe their thought process to notice negative thoughts. Using self-observation techniques, clients write down any automatic thoughts, noting the situation and feelings associated with the automatic thought. Automatic thoughts tend to be irrational but are often believed by the client. They generally tend to "awfulize."

Reinforcement

• Another observational counseling technique involves reinforcement. Much like parents reward children, counselors can also provide positive reinforcement for clients. Observing a positive behavior or cognitive change, the counselor points out the improvement to the client. Depending on the client and the counselor, a reward system may be designed. In some cases, the simple act of praise will be enough of a positive reinforcement to influence change. Reinforcement is a simple but effective observational counseling technique.

Group Therapy/Family Therapy

• Counselors will sometimes invite family members in to session or encourage their clients to attend a group session. The therapist is able to view the client interact with peers or family members. Some clients may not recognize any problems in social skills or communication, making treatment difficult. Observing clients with others is a way for counselors to pinpoint an issue that may have not been brought up.

Psychodrama

• Psychodrama is an observational counseling technique where clients, therapists and peers will act out certain situations. Often, the client will play himself in the psychodrama. However, a peer or the counselor may play the role of the client. In this case, the client will observe his behavior and reactions. Often, it may be something he did not recognize in himself. Psychodrama is also used to help clients role-play and practice certain situations.

Other Observational Techniques

• Some counselors may record or videotape sessions with the client's permission. In these cases, the tape or video is played back so clients can observe their particular behaviors, reactions and statements. A central part of therapy is clients' ability to self-report. Clients have to observe their own problematic behavior. Keeping a journal and charting moods are also examples of observational counseling techniques.