Recording-2025-02-26T01:55:20.198Z

Introduction to Feedback and Reflection

Importance of reflective feedback in therapeutic practice.
Discuss feelings as both a client and therapist.
- Client perspective: Being a client can be intimidating and requires vulnerability, which can enhance empathy when in the role of a therapist.
- Therapist perspective: Focused on responsibility and the need to guide clients effectively.
Realization about communication style can evolve through practice; for some, being too direct may seem intimidating to clients.

Shared experiences enhance learning.
- Some students expressed joy in collaborative work, highlighting how colleagues contribute to their learning.
- Moments of collective problem-solving were shared, reinforcing the importance of teamwork in therapeutic settings.
Notable instances of empowerment among peers, which may inspire skills and approaches in therapy.

Appearance and nonverbal cues play a key role in understanding client dynamics and relationship formation.
- Attention to client’s appearance should be made in initial assessments; often represents underlying issues or emotional states.
- Examples: Neat vs. messy appearance, the use of bright colors or heavy makeup can indicate various mental health states.

Clarification needed on differentiating family history from client history in documentation.
- Historical context about family members should be under family history rather than the individual’s mental health issues.
Emphasizes the necessity to present accurate assessments to avoid confusion during evaluations.

Instructor is open to feedback regarding course design and improvements to ensure student needs are being adequately met.
Intent to form documents to gather opinions on both course format and contents for future enhancement.
Topics in class focus on relational theory in psychoanalysis - bridging internal experiences with interpersonal interactions.

Central concept involves both inner (intrapsychic) and outer (interpersonal) experiences shaping perceptions of self and others.
- A healthy individual generally maintains a positive self-image alongside healthy views of others.
The role of the therapist is to create a collaborative 'third space' where both therapist and client connect authentically.
The influence of cultural considerations, highlighting how race and history impact therapy dynamics and client experiences.

Emphasis on the importance of creating honest connections with clients to foster effective therapy.
- Not just adherence to theory; awareness of personal biases and lived experiences enhances therapeutic results.
Awareness in practice of transference and countertransference as dynamic constructs shaped by both client and therapist experiences.
Therapeutic presence itself acts as a form of self-disclosure; requires careful timing and sensitivity.

Understanding mindfulness within relational theory involves tri-part awareness:
- Awareness of self, client, and the relational flow.
Focus on mutual empathy as the initial step in developing self-awareness in patients, particularly women, to counteract caregiver roles.

Discussion about challenges women face with self-empowerment and recognition of their own needs due to societal expectations of caregiving.
- Finding balance between caring for others and self-care.
- Recognition that neglecting personal health can weaken overall effectiveness as a therapist.

Role play observed during class demonstrated themes of relational complexity and the therapeutic alliance.
- Valuable feedback from peers was encouraged to improve therapy techniques and adapt approaches.
Reminder that practice is critical to successful application of theoretical knowledge in therapy.
- Engaging in exercises ensures mastery of therapeutic practices that adhere to relational theories and cultural sensitivity.