I really appreciate how Dr. Grande asked the client to come up with three "acting as if" behaviors and then went further into narrowing down which behaviors realistically had potential. It allowed the client to rationalize how the behavior would ultimately turn out by playing the tapes all the way through. This way, it made the "acting as if" behavior feel more achievable for the client. I also noticed how Dr. Grande maintained person-centered therapy by basic listening skills such as paraphrasing, reflecting, and summarizing.
As a psychologist and currently a patient, I was recently introduced to this technique. This video makes the technique so much clearer and makes me feel like I have way more chances of finding the behaviours that work the best for me. Thanks for the incredibly helpful roleplay!
By immediately focusing on the clients motivation to spend, he is going straight to the source of stress related spending. From here I really like how he made her think of different ways to deal with her overspending by looking at all options wether they were doable or not. By doing this the therapist actually uncovered a possible goal to work towards while also showing a possible starting point to initiate the change. I found it really important that the counselor told the client she was going to have difficulty at first but the whole point of the "as if" exercise is to go about the situation as if she were confident it would work and she would succeed.
Dr. Grande is amazing man I swear. I'm majoring psychology with concentration in mental health counseling and Dr. Grande is like godsend in these roleplay videos and explanations in the different modalities
I appreciate this technique because I feel like it empowers the client. Dr Grande guided the conversation but the client was in control of the changes she wanted to make in her life which seemed the most rational for her life. I appreciate that there are a few behaviors and if one doesn't work out she has other possibilities to change the behavior she's trying to work through.
I found this video to be a very direct visualization of how to utilize the "As If" technique to help a client gain clarity and make important decisions with regard to their individual goals. I like that Dr. Grande began by exploring the motivations for spending money, therefore enabling the client to explore the deeper meaning behind these behaviors. I enjoyed how Dr. Grande skillfully directed the client to identify possible options, and to think through the feasibility of each option to select what would work best for her situation. Finally, I think leaving the client with a positive affirmation of implementing these behaviors with confidence was key to assisting the client with independent implementation.
Thank you Dr.Grande for demonstrating the "acting as if" technique. Having the client come up with behaviors she could engage in to change her spending habits was great. The client at first appeared to give examples that would not be helpful and elicit anxiety, such as to stop spending cold turkey or create another budget. You walked her through this process so well and focused on the confidence the client had to change her behavior.
I can see how applicable and effective the use of the "acting as if" technique is. Out of all Adlerian techniques, I believe this is very effective. I appreciate how much autonomy is given to the client. The client was able to review her own interventions to help fix her money problems. Dr. Grande utilized basic listening skills that also contributed to the client's autonomy. The client was able to truthfully analyze her own interventions and properly decide on which approach was best. The client was able to find a new sense of confidence and motivation to help tackle the issue she outlined.
Jose Liz I agree that the client centered focus seems to be most beneficial in this case. It seems that a counselor could waste a lot of the clients time if they were to come up with possible triggers, hypothetical reasoning and techniques to try. The client knows themselves and should be given the space to lead with those underlying issues. Even if they don’t automatically know how to solve the issue, the counselor will be able to help them with clarity as they dissect the issue behind the behavior.
I really enjoy Dr. Grande’s Role Play demonstrations, as mentioned before I find as though they are helpful in learning how to properly implement specific techniques into a counseling session. I appreciate the “acting as if” technique because I find that it promotes confidence, positive thinking, and change in behavioral patterns. For this reason, the client is able to work towards altering their behavior to adapt new behaviors that are more sustainable in living a healthier lifestyle. While the counselor is directing the conversation in having the client use the technique demonstrated, the client gains control in deciding which techniques would work best, rather than having the counselor come up with strategies for the client. I appreciated Dr. Grande introducing the technique and providing the client with a clear explanation of what to expect and the concept behind the technique being used. By doing so, the client is aware of the method and process, in order to allow herself to fully participate and set goals that lead to positive outcomes.
I noticed Dr. Grande's ability to make the client feel comfortable going over realistic behaviors she could adapt to help reduce the spending problem. This technique seems directive and immediate for solving an issue with a client. I can appreciate this technique because it is realistic and a means to to help the client feel autonomous in solving their own problem.
I like how you point out the important of this technique empowering the client to solve the problems on their own. As I mentioned in the other comment, this method follow the motto "seeing is believing" and something that individuals often do probably without realizing it. By highlighting the usefulness of this technique, and mentioning moments when a client has probably already used it, I'm sure an individual will feel as if they are extremely capable of using it to help themselves.
As a new CMHC grad student, I feel as if I won the lotto with these videos -thank you!! I am part of an online program and you make me feel like I am having more of a classroom experience! Your role-plays are the best I have found with all actors really doing a great job being authentic and true to the moment and the way you use each technique so well is inspirational. I am taking Counseling Theories this summer and was wondering if you would consider doing a series of videos with the different theoretic modalities or specific techniques like these except being different scenarios, they each attack the same problem? It would be so helpful to see various options and outcomes based on your responses for the same situation. Thanks for your consideration!
I really enjoyed this role play. Dr. Grande explained the "as if" technique to the client and they worked together towards a solution that would work best. He asked her to come up with three different behaviors to reduce her spending. Out of the three new ideas, she chose her last option - handing over her credit card to her husband. Dr. Grande noticed the client felt the most secure with this option and chose to move forward. I also liked how Dr. Grande temporarily dismissed the other two behaviors and told the client they could save them for later. These could be new goals for her on her journey to reduce her uncontrollable spending habit.
Marissa-I agree that putting the other two options ion the table was a good move. He didn't discount them as "bad" or "unrealistic" ideas which played into trying to build confidence in his client. He also implied that they work for her in the future and that she needs to first build confidence in one of the new behaviors..
I really like how Dr. Grande introduces the technique of acting as if to the client. He explains to her that it is basically acting as if you have confidence in a behavior and that it will work. He then has the client think of 3 possible behaviors that she could “act as if” with and proceeds to root out the ones that are unlikely to be followed up on. By taking the client through this technique step by step and encouraging along the way, the client is likely to try her chosen behavior and act as if she has confidence that it will succeed in the following week.
Adam Browne I also agree that when using this technique, it is important to weave through all of the new possible behaviors in order to narrow down and focus on ones that are most likely to work for the client. In this way, the client is more likely to have more instant relief rather than getting frustrated easily. It is also helpful to be aware of behaviors that were already tried in the past but were not effective.
I found it interesting that she was supposed to act as if for multiple behaviors but wasn't really confident the first two would work and disregarded them without acting as if it would work.
It's very interesting now Dr.Grande makes the client comfortable while asking many emotional questions. I also like open-ended questions which allow clients to think and talk. It is a two-way communication and makes client feels they're prt of their treatment
Dr. Grande did great in the beginning of this interview by getting more information about the client. She was able to tell him about the problems she was having with spending. Dr. Grande offered some great Adlerian therapy in the form of 'as if' scenarios. This allowed the client to explore behaviors with Dr. Grande to help her avoid this spending problem she is having.
I think that this video is an excellent portrayal of Adlerian Therapy and the use of the "acting as if" technique because it consisted of a collaborative relationship. Being a goal-oriented therapy, this session displayed that aspect through this specific technique because it allowed the client to reflect on ways to positively change her spending habits. Presenting possible ways to change this concerning behavior, the client was able to develop three possible goals and choose the most fitting one that she would have the most confidence in with accomplishing. By having acted as if she would give her husband her credit card after necessary spending was completed, the client can start becoming conscious of possible feelings she may encounter when that time comes and how she can overcome them. Dr. Grande helped the client discover a new perspective on her spending dilemma and started reorienting the client's behaviors through a specified goal.
Experimenting with behaviors gives the client different choices to alter their behaviors to help assist with their financial burdens. I like how paraphrasing what the client says offers the client the answer they may already know subconsciously.
I like the way Dr. Grande helped the client figure out a way to stop spending unnecessarily. The "acting as if" technique appears to be a great way for the client to attempt new behavioral patterns and to put her spending habits back within her goal range.
Watching Dr. Grande use the “acting as if” theory was very helpful to solidify my understanding of it. Explaining of the different behaviors, instead of providing options to the client, was a great example of how to allow the client to “solve” their own solutions. In this case, the client was choosing behaviors that she thought she would be able to change/modify to help her limiting the spending. Likewise, Dr. Grande did an excellent job of talking through the various behavior changes the client presented to assist her in finding the best one that could help her improve her situation and behaviors. By giving her these “tools” and helping her set a plan of action, which was to give her husband her credit card and only use it for important purchase such as things for her children, groceries, etc. and then once she is finished give it back to him. These goals are to help her reduce/stop stress-spending money and stick to the budget that her and her husband had set for the year. This representation of Adler’s “acting as if” therapy appeared to be very beneficial for the client and was interesting to watch how this technique would unfold.
I found this to be really helpful in understanding how to implement an Adlerian technique in a session. I liked how he helped the client in setting goals for changing target behaviors. By establishing the target behavior and then implementing the "Acting as if" technique, it seems that this could help the client in changing her behavior as long as she stuck with it.
I really like this technique because it helps the client visualize alternate behaviors to the behavior that they want to change. Dr. Grande was very helpful with assisting the client to see the pros and cons to each selected behavioral change. He also helped her to pin point which specific behavior would be the best to "act as if". I also found it helpful that he did not just tell her to go and practice without warning her of the possible challenges, that way she can be prepared ahead of time for possible struggles, so that there is a higher possibility that she will not give up trying.
I liked this technique a lot. It seemed to really help the client learn ways that she could change her behavior of overspending. Having the client come up with the scenarios that would help her situation and then going through them and discussing and eventually picking out one was great. I would definitely use this technique with certain clients.
I particularly liked how Dr. Grande processed through how the Acting as If behavior may make her feel the first few times (taking the credit card, using it, returning it to her husband). I think this is important for the client to cognitively process through the selected behavior. It may bring up other emotions- fear, anger, sadness, etc... The overall success of the technique could depend of the clients ability to confront those feelings with the therapist.
The use of Adlerian theory in "acting as if" allowed the client to sort through possible options that would successfully resolve her problem. Dr. Grande assisted in this approach by guiding her through the process. He asked her to name three restrive behaviors that could help her not spend money excessively. After which, they collaboratively narrowed down to the most effective option. In doing so, they were able to way the pros and cons of each option. The part that I liked the most was Dr. Grande's call to action. He asked the client when she would be able to start using the technique as a way to facilitate action and accountability. He also reminded her that in order for it work, she must believe it will work even when it was hard to do so. I appreciate the way in which he encouraged the client and gave her hope that would extend outside of the counseling relationship.
I think it was a wise idea for Dr.Grande to use the Alderian "As-if" technique with this client. The client seems to doubt her abilities to budget well and maintain the spending plan that she and her husband created.By using the technique the client is able to take herself away from the problem and sees herself as an active role in solving her issue. It allowed the client to come up with alternative behavior to her current over-spending habit. This makes the client an active participant in achieving her goal and it might give the client confidence to know that she came up with the solution to solve her spending issues. You can see that the client was open to this idea and was able to take a step back from her hesitancy and was willing to try something to resolve her issue.
I pictured "acting as if" differently. I thought it would have been more alone the lines of the miracle question. It was nice to see this role-play in order to get that clarified because acting as if is more about thinking through the different actions the client can do to work on their issue. It was also interesting that, when talking about her options, they discussed one that she had tried before and wasn't helpful so she could work through many options that add to the perspective. By seeing how other's wouldn't be helpful for her and finding the one she thinks she can successfully utilize was, she will have more confidence in it because she picked the one she liked the best instead of just being given one suggestion without comparison.
Dr. Grande and the client worked well together within the session to determine the steps the client wanted to take towards meeting her goals of spending less money. Dr. Grande presented questions that led the client to make her own decisions to how she intends to lessen her spend along with allowing her to set the time frame for beginning to reach her goals. When explaining the “as if” technique Dr. Grande encouraged the client to face the challenges of the desire to spend by being confident in how she feels.
This video technique is great for weighing out all the options and finding which behavior a client is more "confident" in. I can see the benefit of being confident in the selected behavior because it will most likely bring about the most positive behavioral change.
I can appreciate the acting as if technique as it actively involves the client in determining their own solution to their presenting concern. With this Adlerian technique, it allows the client to reflect on their own strengths and challenge themselves to bring about the change they would like to see. Working in a therapeutic community (TC) with mandated clients, acting as if is a technique that we frequently use. Because many clients enter treatment after many relapses, they have difficulty believing that they can remain consistent in maintaining their sobriety. Additionally, many clients are not ready to change maladaptive behaviors are unreceptive to the concepts of the TC. By encouraging them to act as if they are clean and living the way they want to live, the counseling staff can assist the client in making gradual change even if they are not ready to do so.
I think this was a good technique to use in this situation. The client was actually come up with a behavior that she felt confident in. She said at the beginning of the session that her triggers for spending were getting upset or arguing with her husband, being depressed, or wanting to spend it on her children. I wonder what happens when she gets upset , will she go to the husband and demand the card or will she find another way to cope.
I found this video particularly helpful because it clarified some of the misconceptions I had regarding the "acting as if" technique. When I initially read about the technique I assumed that the counselor came up with the "what if" scenarios and presented them to the client. However, I now see that the counselor explains the technique to the client and then prompts them to come up with their own scenarios. I like this technique because it forces the client to acknowledge their erroneous beliefs/behavior, but it still allows them the freedom to choose how to correct it.
In this role-play, the counselor allows the client to develop ways she believes she can overcome her struggle with spending money. The counselor encourages her to come up with multiple ideas on how to tackle the problem and provides her with a goal to work towards by the time of the next session. I like how the counselor listened to the possible ways the client could solve the issue, and encouraged her to work towards the goal she felt most comfortable with in order to allow the client to succeed in lessening the excessive spending problem. With the "acting as-if" technique, the client has to believe he or she can make that solution work, and Dr. Grande explored multiple options with the client to get a sense of what solution will most likely succeed for the client even though all the solutions the client came up with will be difficult for the client to adapt to at first.
I see the benefits for some clients using this "as if" technique, particularly for clients like the one in this video who act impulsively. It reminds me of some people who are visual learners and if they can act like the person they would want to be and can see the preferred outcome, I feel they would have a better chance at actually changing the behavior.
I feel this technique could be beneficial for our clients. When it comes to change for any of us I feel it can be a challenge. Especially if the change idea is given from someone else. This technique allows the client to come up with their own ideas of change and decide whether or not that idea is proficient or not through way of listing the pros and cons.
This is one of the more interesting techniques to use on clients. Client's also must be in the mindset to do this technique, along with understanding the severity to their issue or problem. Dr. Grande did a great job of walking this client through the technique, but also allowing her to feel comfortable and encouraged.
This role-play was very interesting to watch. I believe that this technique would work however maybe most helpful when using multiple techniques. I believe that the client was aware of her spending and could identify but couldn't get to the core reason why in this technique.
I like the idea behind this technique. I'm curious to see how this technique can be implemented for clients presenting other issues. Also, i think it was a good way to help the client come up with options that they would explore in this technique on their own. i feel it may help preserve the client's independence in their mind.
In this video, Dr. Grande used the "acting as if" technique efficiently and in addition there were some other Adlerian techniques used. Dr. Grande emphasized the importance of having confidence, even if she doesn't truly feel it, that her new behavior will be successful. He assured her that although it may be uncomfortable behavior to just do it as if she has confidence that it will work. I also noticed his use of encouragement throughout the session which is another essential technique Adlerians (among others) emphasize. I also noticed that Dr. Grande used task setting and commitment with his client by having his client come up with a start date for the new behavior and he speculated that she will have tried this new behavior at least a few times by the time they meet again to discuss progress.
The "acting as if" technique seems to demonstrate the "bridge" professor Adair spoke of that Adler created to connect psychoanalytic approaches to more modern methods such as the tenants of behavioral theory. This technique also seems to speak to Adler's phenomenological approach whereas the roots of the presenting problem and the potential solutions are unique to the individual. The client had the freedom to explore potential solutions and ultimately pick a potential solution that she feels most comfortable with. Dr. Grande also leaves a sense that if this idea doesn't work it can be revisited, modified, or rejected at the next session.
Sounds a bit like financial advising. The client mentioned early on that spending money helped her feel good about herself. I think this would be the direction I would explore. Are there other ways of feeling good about yourself that are not as destructive or problem causing.
It was interesting that the technique was explicitly explained to the client rather than simply implemented. This puts the client in control and requires commitment. I was expecting that the counselor would suggest an alternative to spending, then realized that spending was the specific behavior to be controlled at the moment. I would think that in subsequent sessions the maladaptive use of spending would be addressed by finding a healthier alternative. Also, an Alderian therapist would attempt to identify the source of that maladaptive behavior by exploring the clients early life experiences.
This technique encourages the client to focus on resolutions to the situation they may need assistance within. The counselor does a great job at guiding the client through this process, and allows the client to look at both negative and positive outcomes of the clients choices. From this process the client is able to pick out the best possible solution, and goal for their situation.
I like the idea of “acting as if” with the behaviors being derived from the client themselves because they know what will be realistic for them as well as what may not. Allowing the client to come up with these behaviors seems like it would open the door for them to be able to gain some insight about themselves as they go through the process. The client seems to be aware of her triggers, but trying out the techniques could only deepen her understanding of the real issues.
Depending on the severity of the situation, I feel like this approach could be successful. It would take a client that is willing and ready to change, not to mention committed to this practice outside of the sessions. The client would also need to be aware of desirable type of behavior/mindset needed to achieve the positive image of their future selves. This technique offers something that clients may crave from a counseling session - encouragement and hope towards making a change. I think that this technique could pair nicely with other therapeutic approaches.
Its obvious this woman has a spending problem. She has discussed that if she were to stop spending altogether her anxiety would increase. Therefore, because she is stressed she would spend more. That behavior doesn’t seem to be one that would work best for her. I think the “Acting as if” technique could help depending on how severe her spending issue is. The client gave 3 examples of changing her behavior: Stop spending, setting a limit and giving her card to her husband. Of those three she said giving her husband her credit card would be slightly tough but the easier of the other two to follow through with. The client could see the change and hope to follow through with it. I like how Dr. Grande took the other two out of the situation at this time because they created more issues. He is still challenging her but also encouraging her.
The "acting as if" technique used in the role-play seems really helpful in having clients reflect on their inner conflicts and associated emotions. Clients can talk about this with the therapist in a safe environment and not feel judged. With the help of a therapist, clients can construct new behaviors that can be practiced in session and also applied to real-life scenarios. If I were the counselor, I think I would also assign the client with a "back-up plan" or behavior to try if the first new behavior was not effective at all. I think doing so can also help some clients feel a bit more relieved while they are waiting to have another counseling session.
Initially when asked about the possible alternative behaviors to take when wanting to spend, she mentioned budgeting, which did not work previously. Having the client create possible alternative actions empowered her to become an active participant in her changing the behavior and she seemed eager to curtail her spending. My only concern would be if an individual were rather reluctant to alter the behavior or relied heavily on the behavior as a crutch. This technique may not be the most effective and more time would be needed to address the causal trigger.
I feel like this technique has its benefits and pitfalls. By changing the behavior, the client has a better chance of getting the desired outcome; however, if the option is to far out of reach it wouldn't help at all. The client gave 3 examples of changed behavior, stop spending, setting a limit and giving her card to her husband. Out of the 3, giving the card to her husband would cause her less anxiety and is easier to accomplish.
The "Acting as if" technique can be integrated in a few therapeutic approaches to assist in changing behaviors. It's practical, active and provides an opportunity for clients to acquire new habits through repetition.
Exploring client directed, realistic options for changing her current behavior to her desired behavior increases chances of client following through with the plan. The counselor was able to give the client a task to be completed/ homework over the week in between now and their next session to try out the established plan. The counselor was careful to foreshadow possible difficulties and highlighted the importance of "acting as if" the new behaviors will work and having the confidence that changing her habits will move her close to her ultimate goal: reduce problem/unnecessary spending.
Adlerian therapy, specifically "Acting as if" technique is one good way to focus the client on tools that will better affect their behavior for a more positive outcome. Allowing the client to create, in this case, three options that would work best in creating this change gives the client reasoning tools to use in the future under other circumstances in their life. It also, during the session, gives the client the decision to choose which of the three behavior change ideas would work best for them. This, in turn, allows the client to be more accepting of their idea going forward which could then be a method for that positive change they seek.
This technique allowed the client to be aware that her spending is extremely serious and is increasingly getting out of hand. I think that the client in the video had a desire to change her behavior. With a client who is resistant to change this technique may not be as effective.
You bring up a good point. This technique does require a bit of will, creativity, and open mindedness on the client's part. Perhaps also some more encouragement on the therapist's part. It would be interesting to see a role-play with a resistant client, however in that case, another technique may be more appropriate.
I agree with you also. The client would have to admit that there is a problem and be willing to change their behavior. If they are resistant then this technique wouldn't work as well.
Dr. Grande- I enjoyed watching the Role-Play based on the Adlerian Therapy. When you were able to show the client the "acting as if" technique and allowed the client to come up with basic behavior techniques to help her decrease the amount of money she spends. It was important to help the client to identify what would make her more anxious or stressed if she was completely cut off from spending. You were able to identify what would work for her and for her family to get back on their budget. By the end of the session, the client felt more comfortable about formulating the idea without telling her exactly what to do.
It is obvious this woman is spending money to give her a positive burst of emotions. Problem is this feeling fades quickly and is simply a quick fix. The technique "acting as if" is a useful tool in therapy. It reminds me of a self fulfilling prophecy, in thinking something positive will happen then it does. Having success with that would reinforce a possibility of fixing the issue.
The feeling this woman gets when she spends money is just like an addict gets when they use drugs. it feels good in the moment but the consequences of their actions can be detrimental
I can see how this approach could be helpful for some clients. However, it may not be the best fit for someone who cannot see the severity of their problematic behavior. The client seemed to be aware that her spending was getting out of hand, and she could attribute feeling stressed with spending, so that's a step in the right direction. I wonder if it is ever appropriate for the counselor to offer a suggestion? For example, suggesting that she get the agreed-upon monthly budget in cash so that she can physically SEE how much she is spending and when it is time to slow down? In my opinion, I think that would be less frustrating then having to give the card to her husband and being stressed out with having to ask for it back whenever she needs it.
If this video was meant to demonstrate how this technique does absolutely nothing to address the real problem it succeeded. Like Todd said, spending is a symptom. This exercise does nothing to help her deal with the cause of the symptom. She said that when she gets upset she turns to spending. So how about giving her a more effective way of dealing with emotion instead of just making her feel bad for spending and giving control over to someone else (her husband)? This therapy method is just going to make her feel worse about her spending and is a recipe for disaster in a marriage. Any student trying to become a counselor needs to not swallow this kind of suggested technique without asking any questions. If this is what psychologists are doing with people, psychology gets a big fail.
I really appreciate how Dr. Grande asked the client to come up with three "acting as if" behaviors and then went further into narrowing down which behaviors realistically had potential. It allowed the client to rationalize how the behavior would ultimately turn out by playing the tapes all the way through. This way, it made the "acting as if" behavior feel more achievable for the client. I also noticed how Dr. Grande maintained person-centered therapy by basic listening skills such as paraphrasing, reflecting, and summarizing.
Lauryn Moffa these were great observations and additional insights. Thank you for posting.
As a psychologist and currently a patient, I was recently introduced to this technique. This video makes the technique so much clearer and makes me feel like I have way more chances of finding the behaviours that work the best for me. Thanks for the incredibly helpful roleplay!
By immediately focusing on the clients motivation to spend, he is going straight to the source of stress related spending. From here I really like how he made her think of different ways to deal with her overspending by looking at all options wether they were doable or not. By doing this the therapist actually uncovered a possible goal to work towards while also showing a possible starting point to initiate the change. I found it really important that the counselor told the client she was going to have difficulty at first but the whole point of the "as if" exercise is to go about the situation as if she were confident it would work and she would succeed.
Dr. Grande is amazing man I swear. I'm majoring psychology with concentration in mental health counseling and Dr. Grande is like godsend in these roleplay videos and explanations in the different modalities
I appreciate this technique because I feel like it empowers the client. Dr Grande guided the conversation but the client was in control of the changes she wanted to make in her life which seemed the most rational for her life. I appreciate that there are a few behaviors and if one doesn't work out she has other possibilities to change the behavior she's trying to work through.
I found this video to be a very direct visualization of how to utilize the "As If" technique to help a client gain clarity and make important decisions with regard to their individual goals. I like that Dr. Grande began by exploring the motivations for spending money, therefore enabling the client to explore the deeper meaning behind these behaviors. I enjoyed how Dr. Grande skillfully directed the client to identify possible options, and to think through the feasibility of each option to select what would work best for her situation. Finally, I think leaving the client with a positive affirmation of implementing these behaviors with confidence was key to assisting the client with independent implementation.
Thank you Dr.Grande for demonstrating the "acting as if" technique. Having the client come up with behaviors she could engage in to change her spending habits was great. The client at first appeared to give examples that would not be helpful and elicit anxiety, such as to stop spending cold turkey or create another budget. You walked her through this process so well and focused on the confidence the client had to change her behavior.
I can see how applicable and effective the use of the "acting as if" technique is. Out of all Adlerian techniques, I believe this is very effective. I appreciate how much autonomy is given to the client. The client was able to review her own interventions to help fix her money problems. Dr. Grande utilized basic listening skills that also contributed to the client's autonomy. The client was able to truthfully analyze her own interventions and properly decide on which approach was best. The client was able to find a new sense of confidence and motivation to help tackle the issue she outlined.
Jose Liz I agree that the client centered focus seems to be most beneficial in this case. It seems that a counselor could waste a lot of the clients time if they were to come up with possible triggers, hypothetical reasoning and techniques to try. The client knows themselves and should be given the space to lead with those underlying issues. Even if they don’t automatically know how to solve the issue, the counselor will be able to help them with clarity as they dissect the issue behind the behavior.
I really enjoy Dr. Grande’s Role Play demonstrations, as mentioned before I find as though they are helpful in learning how to properly implement specific techniques into a counseling session. I appreciate the “acting as if” technique because I find that it promotes confidence, positive thinking, and change in behavioral patterns. For this reason, the client is able to work towards altering their behavior to adapt new behaviors that are more sustainable in living a healthier lifestyle. While the counselor is directing the conversation in having the client use the technique demonstrated, the client gains control in deciding which techniques would work best, rather than having the counselor come up with strategies for the client. I appreciated Dr. Grande introducing the technique and providing the client with a clear explanation of what to expect and the concept behind the technique being used. By doing so, the client is aware of the method and process, in order to allow herself to fully participate and set goals that lead to positive outcomes.
I noticed Dr. Grande's ability to make the client feel comfortable going over realistic behaviors she could adapt to help reduce the spending problem. This technique seems directive and immediate for solving an issue with a client. I can appreciate this technique because it is realistic and a means to to help the client feel autonomous in solving their own problem.
I like how you point out the important of this technique empowering the client to solve the problems on their own. As I mentioned in the other comment, this method follow the motto "seeing is believing" and something that individuals often do probably without realizing it. By highlighting the usefulness of this technique, and mentioning moments when a client has probably already used it, I'm sure an individual will feel as if they are extremely capable of using it to help themselves.
As a new CMHC grad student, I feel as if I won the lotto with these videos -thank you!! I am part of an online program and you make me feel like I am having more of a classroom experience! Your role-plays are the best I have found with all actors really doing a great job being authentic and true to the moment and the way you use each technique so well is inspirational. I am taking Counseling Theories this summer and was wondering if you would consider doing a series of videos with the different theoretic modalities or specific techniques like these except being different scenarios, they each attack the same problem? It would be so helpful to see various options and outcomes based on your responses for the same situation. Thanks for your consideration!
same!
I really enjoyed this role play. Dr. Grande explained the "as if" technique to the client and they worked together towards a solution that would work best. He asked her to come up with three different behaviors to reduce her spending. Out of the three new ideas, she chose her last option - handing over her credit card to her husband. Dr. Grande noticed the client felt the most secure with this option and chose to move forward. I also liked how Dr. Grande temporarily dismissed the other two behaviors and told the client they could save them for later. These could be new goals for her on her journey to reduce her uncontrollable spending habit.
Marissa-I agree that putting the other two options ion the table was a good move. He didn't discount them as "bad" or "unrealistic" ideas which played into trying to build confidence in his client. He also implied that they work for her in the future and that she needs to first build confidence in one of the new behaviors..
I really like how Dr. Grande introduces the technique of acting as if to the client. He explains to her that it is basically acting as if you have confidence in a behavior and that it will work. He then has the client think of 3 possible behaviors that she could “act as if” with and proceeds to root out the ones that are unlikely to be followed up on. By taking the client through this technique step by step and encouraging along the way, the client is likely to try her chosen behavior and act as if she has confidence that it will succeed in the following week.
Adam Browne I also agree that when using this technique, it is important to weave through all of the new possible behaviors in order to narrow down and focus on ones that are most likely to work for the client. In this way, the client is more likely to have more instant relief rather than getting frustrated easily. It is also helpful to be aware of behaviors that were already tried in the past but were not effective.
I found it interesting that she was supposed to act as if for multiple behaviors but wasn't really confident the first two would work and disregarded them without acting as if it would work.
It's very interesting now Dr.Grande makes the client comfortable while asking many emotional questions. I also like open-ended questions which allow clients to think and talk. It is a two-way communication and makes client feels they're prt of their treatment
Dr. Grande did great in the beginning of this interview by getting more information about the client. She was able to tell him about the problems she was having with spending. Dr. Grande offered some great Adlerian therapy in the form of 'as if' scenarios. This allowed the client to explore behaviors with Dr. Grande to help her avoid this spending problem she is having.
I think that this video is an excellent portrayal of Adlerian Therapy and the use of the "acting as if" technique because it consisted of a collaborative relationship. Being a goal-oriented therapy, this session displayed that aspect through this specific technique because it allowed the client to reflect on ways to positively change her spending habits. Presenting possible ways to change this concerning behavior, the client was able to develop three possible goals and choose the most fitting one that she would have the most confidence in with accomplishing. By having acted as if she would give her husband her credit card after necessary spending was completed, the client can start becoming conscious of possible feelings she may encounter when that time comes and how she can overcome them. Dr. Grande helped the client discover a new perspective on her spending dilemma and started reorienting the client's behaviors through a specified goal.
Experimenting with behaviors gives the client different choices to alter their behaviors to help assist with their financial burdens. I like how paraphrasing what the client says offers the client the answer they may already know subconsciously.
I like the way Dr. Grande helped the client figure out a way to stop spending unnecessarily. The "acting as if" technique appears to be a great way for the client to attempt new behavioral patterns and to put her spending habits back within her goal range.
Watching Dr. Grande use the “acting as if” theory was very helpful to solidify my understanding of it. Explaining of the different behaviors, instead of providing options to the client, was a great example of how to allow the client to “solve” their own solutions. In this case, the client was choosing behaviors that she thought she would be able to change/modify to help her limiting the spending. Likewise, Dr. Grande did an excellent job of talking through the various behavior changes the client presented to assist her in finding the best one that could help her improve her situation and behaviors. By giving her these “tools” and helping her set a plan of action, which was to give her husband her credit card and only use it for important purchase such as things for her children, groceries, etc. and then once she is finished give it back to him. These goals are to help her reduce/stop stress-spending money and stick to the budget that her and her husband had set for the year. This representation of Adler’s “acting as if” therapy appeared to be very beneficial for the client and was interesting to watch how this technique would unfold.
Nothing was solved with this technique.
I found this to be really helpful in understanding how to implement an Adlerian technique in a session. I liked how he helped the client in setting goals for changing target behaviors. By establishing the target behavior and then implementing the "Acting as if" technique, it seems that this could help the client in changing her behavior as long as she stuck with it.
I really like this technique because it helps the client visualize alternate behaviors to the behavior that they want to change. Dr. Grande was very helpful with assisting the client to see the pros and cons to each selected behavioral change. He also helped her to pin point which specific behavior would be the best to "act as if". I also found it helpful that he did not just tell her to go and practice without warning her of the possible challenges, that way she can be prepared ahead of time for possible struggles, so that there is a higher possibility that she will not give up trying.
I liked this technique a lot. It seemed to really help the client learn ways that she could change her behavior of overspending. Having the client come up with the scenarios that would help her situation and then going through them and discussing and eventually picking out one was great. I would definitely use this technique with certain clients.
I particularly liked how Dr. Grande processed through how the Acting as If behavior may make her feel the first few times (taking the credit card, using it, returning it to her husband). I think this is important for the client to cognitively process through the selected behavior. It may bring up other emotions- fear, anger, sadness, etc... The overall success of the technique could depend of the clients ability to confront those feelings with the therapist.
The use of Adlerian theory in "acting as if" allowed the client to sort through possible options that would successfully resolve her problem. Dr. Grande assisted in this approach by guiding her through the process. He asked her to name three restrive behaviors that could help her not spend money excessively. After which, they collaboratively narrowed down to the most effective option. In doing so, they were able to way the pros and cons of each option. The part that I liked the most was Dr. Grande's call to action. He asked the client when she would be able to start using the technique as a way to facilitate action and accountability. He also reminded her that in order for it work, she must believe it will work even when it was hard to do so. I appreciate the way in which he encouraged the client and gave her hope that would extend outside of the counseling relationship.
I think it was a wise idea for Dr.Grande to use the Alderian "As-if" technique with this client. The client seems to doubt her abilities to budget well and maintain the spending plan that she and her husband created.By using the technique the client is able to take herself away from the problem and sees herself as an active role in solving her issue. It allowed the client to come up with alternative behavior to her current over-spending habit. This makes the client an active participant in achieving her goal and it might give the client confidence to know that she came up with the solution to solve her spending issues. You can see that the client was open to this idea and was able to take a step back from her hesitancy and was willing to try something to resolve her issue.
I pictured "acting as if" differently. I thought it would have been more alone the lines of the miracle question. It was nice to see this role-play in order to get that clarified because acting as if is more about thinking through the different actions the client can do to work on their issue. It was also interesting that, when talking about her options, they discussed one that she had tried before and wasn't helpful so she could work through many options that add to the perspective. By seeing how other's wouldn't be helpful for her and finding the one she thinks she can successfully utilize was, she will have more confidence in it because she picked the one she liked the best instead of just being given one suggestion without comparison.
Dr. Grande and the client worked well together within the session to determine the steps the client wanted to take towards meeting her goals of spending less money. Dr. Grande presented questions that led the client to make her own decisions to how she intends to lessen her spend along with allowing her to set the time frame for beginning to reach her goals. When explaining the “as if” technique Dr. Grande encouraged the client to face the challenges of the desire to spend by being confident in how she feels.
This video technique is great for weighing out all the options and finding which behavior a client is more "confident" in. I can see the benefit of being confident in the selected behavior because it will most likely bring about the most positive behavioral change.
I can appreciate the acting as if technique as it actively involves the client in determining their own solution to their presenting concern. With this Adlerian technique, it allows the client to reflect on their own strengths and challenge themselves to bring about the change they would like to see. Working in a therapeutic community (TC) with mandated clients, acting as if is a technique that we frequently use. Because many clients enter treatment after many relapses, they have difficulty believing that they can remain consistent in maintaining their sobriety. Additionally, many clients are not ready to change maladaptive behaviors are unreceptive to the concepts of the TC. By encouraging them to act as if they are clean and living the way they want to live, the counseling staff can assist the client in making gradual change even if they are not ready to do so.
I think this was a good technique to use in this situation. The client was actually come up with a behavior that she felt confident in. She said at the beginning of the session that her triggers for spending were getting upset or arguing with her husband, being depressed, or wanting to spend it on her children. I wonder what happens when she gets upset , will she go to the husband and demand the card or will she find another way to cope.
I found this video particularly helpful because it clarified some of the misconceptions I had regarding the "acting as if" technique. When I initially read about the technique I assumed that the counselor came up with the "what if" scenarios and presented them to the client. However, I now see that the counselor explains the technique to the client and then prompts them to come up with their own scenarios. I like this technique because it forces the client to acknowledge their erroneous beliefs/behavior, but it still allows them the freedom to choose how to correct it.
In this role-play, the counselor allows the client to develop ways she believes she can overcome her struggle with spending money. The counselor encourages her to come up with multiple ideas on how to tackle the problem and provides her with a goal to work towards by the time of the next session. I like how the counselor listened to the possible ways the client could solve the issue, and encouraged her to work towards the goal she felt most comfortable with in order to allow the client to succeed in lessening the excessive spending problem. With the "acting as-if" technique, the client has to believe he or she can make that solution work, and Dr. Grande explored multiple options with the client to get a sense of what solution will most likely succeed for the client even though all the solutions the client came up with will be difficult for the client to adapt to at first.
I see the benefits for some clients using this "as if" technique, particularly for clients like the one in this video who act impulsively. It reminds me of some people who are visual learners and if they can act like the person they would want to be and can see the preferred outcome, I feel they would have a better chance at actually changing the behavior.
I feel this technique could be beneficial for our clients. When it comes to change for any of us I feel it can be a challenge. Especially if the change idea is given from someone else. This technique allows the client to come up with their own ideas of change and decide whether or not that idea is proficient or not through way of listing the pros and cons.
This is one of the more interesting techniques to use on clients. Client's also must be in the mindset to do this technique, along with understanding the severity to their issue or problem. Dr. Grande did a great job of walking this client through the technique, but also allowing her to feel comfortable and encouraged.
This role-play was very interesting to watch. I believe that this technique would work however maybe most helpful when using multiple techniques. I believe that the client was aware of her spending and could identify but couldn't get to the core reason why in this technique.
I like the idea behind this technique. I'm curious to see how this technique can be implemented for clients presenting other issues. Also, i think it was a good way to help the client come up with options that they would explore in this technique on their own. i feel it may help preserve the client's independence in their mind.
In this video, Dr. Grande used the "acting as if" technique efficiently and in addition there were some other Adlerian techniques used. Dr. Grande emphasized the importance of having confidence, even if she doesn't truly feel it, that her new behavior will be successful. He assured her that although it may be uncomfortable behavior to just do it as if she has confidence that it will work. I also noticed his use of encouragement throughout the session which is another essential technique Adlerians (among others) emphasize. I also noticed that Dr. Grande used task setting and commitment with his client by having his client come up with a start date for the new behavior and he speculated that she will have tried this new behavior at least a few times by the time they meet again to discuss progress.
The "acting as if" technique seems to demonstrate the "bridge" professor Adair spoke of that Adler created to connect psychoanalytic approaches to more modern methods such as the tenants of behavioral theory. This technique also seems to speak to Adler's phenomenological approach whereas the roots of the presenting problem and the potential solutions are unique to the individual. The client had the freedom to explore potential solutions and ultimately pick a potential solution that she feels most comfortable with. Dr. Grande also leaves a sense that if this idea doesn't work it can be revisited, modified, or rejected at the next session.
Sounds a bit like financial advising. The client mentioned early on that spending money helped her feel good about herself. I think this would be the direction I would explore. Are there other ways of feeling good about yourself that are not as destructive or problem causing.
It was interesting that the technique was explicitly explained to the client rather than simply implemented. This puts the client in control and requires commitment. I was expecting that the counselor would suggest an alternative to spending, then realized that spending was the specific behavior to be controlled at the moment. I would think that in subsequent sessions the maladaptive use of spending would be addressed by finding a healthier alternative. Also, an Alderian therapist would attempt to identify the source of that maladaptive behavior by exploring the clients early life experiences.
This technique encourages the client to focus on resolutions to the situation they may need assistance within. The counselor does a great job at guiding the client through this process, and allows the client to look at both negative and positive outcomes of the clients choices. From this process the client is able to pick out the best possible solution, and goal for their situation.
I like the idea of “acting as if” with the behaviors being derived from the client themselves because they know what will be realistic for them as well as what may not. Allowing the client to come up with these behaviors seems like it would open the door for them to be able to gain some insight about themselves as they go through the process. The client seems to be aware of her triggers, but trying out the techniques could only deepen her understanding of the real issues.
Depending on the severity of the situation, I feel like this approach could be successful. It would take a client that is willing and ready to change, not to mention committed to this practice outside of the sessions. The client would also need to be aware of desirable type of behavior/mindset needed to achieve the positive image of their future selves. This technique offers something that clients may crave from a counseling session - encouragement and hope towards making a change. I think that this technique could pair nicely with other therapeutic approaches.
Enjoyed this role play. The back ground noise was distracting. Good Actress!
Its obvious this woman has a spending problem. She has discussed that if she were to stop spending altogether her anxiety would increase. Therefore, because she is stressed she would spend more. That behavior doesn’t seem to be one that would work best for her. I think the “Acting as if” technique could help depending on how severe her spending issue is. The client gave 3 examples of changing her behavior: Stop spending, setting a limit and giving her card to her husband. Of those three she said giving her husband her credit card would be slightly tough but the easier of the other two to follow through with. The client could see the change and hope to follow through with it. I like how Dr. Grande took the other two out of the situation at this time because they created more issues. He is still challenging her but also encouraging her.
any suggestions if the client cannot come up with hypothetical behaviors?
dulce rodriguez Perhaps the therapist could create 3 hypothetical behaviors and ask for client's reactions
The "acting as if" technique used in the role-play seems really helpful in having clients reflect on their inner conflicts and associated emotions. Clients can talk about this with the therapist in a safe environment and not feel judged. With the help of a therapist, clients can construct new behaviors that can be practiced in session and also applied to real-life scenarios. If I were the counselor, I think I would also assign the client with a "back-up plan" or behavior to try if the first new behavior was not effective at all. I think doing so can also help some clients feel a bit more relieved while they are waiting to have another counseling session.
Initially when asked about the possible alternative behaviors to take when wanting to spend, she mentioned budgeting, which did not work previously. Having the client create possible alternative actions empowered her to become an active participant in her changing the behavior and she seemed eager to curtail her spending. My only concern would be if an individual were rather reluctant to alter the behavior or relied heavily on the behavior as a crutch. This technique may not be the most effective and more time would be needed to address the causal trigger.
I feel like this technique has its benefits and pitfalls. By changing the behavior, the client has a better chance of getting the desired outcome; however, if the option is to far out of reach it wouldn't help at all. The client gave 3 examples of changed behavior, stop spending, setting a limit and giving her card to her husband. Out of the 3, giving the card to her husband would cause her less anxiety and is easier to accomplish.
In my opinion, option 3 was the best option because to her benefit, someone else can help hold her accountable for her spending habits.
The "Acting as if" technique can be integrated in a few therapeutic approaches to assist in changing behaviors. It's practical, active and provides an opportunity for clients to acquire new habits through repetition.
Exploring client directed, realistic options for changing her current behavior to her desired behavior increases chances of client following through with the plan. The counselor was able to give the client a task to be completed/ homework over the week in between now and their next session to try out the established plan. The counselor was careful to foreshadow possible difficulties and highlighted the importance of "acting as if" the new behaviors will work and having the confidence that changing her habits will move her close to her ultimate goal: reduce problem/unnecessary spending.
can Adlerian therapy fix flaws in the prototype?
Adlerian therapy, specifically "Acting as if" technique is one good way to focus the client on tools that will better affect their behavior for a more positive outcome. Allowing the client to create, in this case, three options that would work best in creating this change gives the client reasoning tools to use in the future under other circumstances in their life. It also, during the session, gives the client the decision to choose which of the three behavior change ideas would work best for them. This, in turn, allows the client to be more accepting of their idea going forward which could then be a method for that positive change they seek.
Incredible technique!
unfortunate interior decorating haha
This technique allowed the client to be aware that her spending is extremely serious and is increasingly getting out of hand. I think that the client in the video had a desire to change her behavior. With a client who is resistant to change this technique may not be as effective.
You bring up a good point. This technique does require a bit of will, creativity, and open mindedness on the client's part. Perhaps also some more encouragement on the therapist's part. It would be interesting to see a role-play with a resistant client, however in that case, another technique may be more appropriate.
I agree with you also. The client would have to admit that there is a problem and be willing to change their behavior. If they are resistant then this technique wouldn't work as well.
The female's pained expressions are funny to watch. She tries so hard 😆
Dr. Grande- I enjoyed watching the Role-Play based on the Adlerian Therapy. When you were able to show the client the "acting as if" technique and allowed the client to come up with basic behavior techniques to help her decrease the amount of money she spends. It was important to help the client to identify what would make her more anxious or stressed if she was completely cut off from spending. You were able to identify what would work for her and for her family to get back on their budget. By the end of the session, the client felt more comfortable about formulating the idea without telling her exactly what to do.
It is obvious this woman is spending money to give her a positive burst of emotions. Problem is this feeling fades quickly and is simply a quick fix. The technique "acting as if" is a useful tool in therapy. It reminds me of a self fulfilling prophecy, in thinking something positive will happen then it does. Having success with that would reinforce a possibility of fixing the issue.
The feeling this woman gets when she spends money is just like an addict gets when they use drugs. it feels good in the moment but the consequences of their actions can be detrimental
Technique start at 2:10
good sample
Sir can I use this to be an actor
I am acting as if I am already a Bollywood actor
Yes, but won’t she still have anxiety and a need to reduce it.
the method is not effective if the client is not giving suggestions...
I can see how this approach could be helpful for some clients. However, it may not be the best fit for someone who cannot see the severity of their problematic behavior. The client seemed to be aware that her spending was getting out of hand, and she could attribute feeling stressed with spending, so that's a step in the right direction. I wonder if it is ever appropriate for the counselor to offer a suggestion? For example, suggesting that she get the agreed-upon monthly budget in cash so that she can physically SEE how much she is spending and when it is time to slow down? In my opinion, I think that would be less frustrating then having to give the card to her husband and being stressed out with having to ask for it back whenever she needs it.
If this video was meant to demonstrate how this technique does absolutely nothing to address the real problem it succeeded. Like Todd said, spending is a symptom. This exercise does nothing to help her deal with the cause of the symptom. She said that when she gets upset she turns to spending. So how about giving her a more effective way of dealing with emotion instead of just making her feel bad for spending and giving control over to someone else (her husband)? This therapy method is just going to make her feel worse about her spending and is a recipe for disaster in a marriage. Any student trying to become a counselor needs to not swallow this kind of suggested technique without asking any questions. If this is what psychologists are doing with people, psychology gets a big fail.
Love
This solution turns the client into her husband’s child.
😊😊
I just know her disordered shopping behaviors were not on clothes
Row aswell, it will give you gigantic shoulders....door zwemmen door zwemmen..-:gabr~l's advies