It always amazes me when the conditions for a psychological assessment flow perfectly - regardless of the ailment. Two cases back to back today worked out like a dream. Both were people suffering from psychosis who were gaurded and "just there to get on meds" as they said.
Two different techniques had the same result - instant bonding - a process that generally takes six months if you are lucky.
The first client was delusional - unfortunately this person was very high functioning and the scheme her mind created made a lot of sense to her. THis "organizing principle" helps the mind make sense of the situation and for a therapist we need to avoid taking it away from them. "So the government is spying on you through your T.V. What makes you suspect that?"
The other person had voices screaming in their head. Possibly the result of a past head injury. Even with the voices going on we connected. I listened, my replies made sense, and then I saw a spark of happiness inside of them and made a comment. It was as if we became instant best friends! Ergo the magic of psychotherapy. Now on the same page, let's do some healing work.
It is an interesting feeling, making an intimate connection with somebody so fixated on their delusion, or psychotic, or in the midst of a panic attack. This is sacred ground to tread. This is why I continued my education and received a Doctorate. I had a knack of caring so deeply that clients took notice, opened up, and I needed to learn how to properly close them up. The key word is UP because that is how to finish sessions - on the Upswing!
How do therapists close up clients? This is an art form. This can be a dance. It is being sensitive to what is happening in the moment, being caring, honest, and above all - real. The robotic speaches or the do as I say, not as I do approach tends to fail miserably. If there is nothing to say, then say nothing, but love them internally. It is in the loving connection that heals the most.
Everybody, underneath is exactly the same. Mother Theresa said it best. "When I treat people on the streets of Calcutta, I see Jesus in all his disguises." When the disguise is removed and your heart is shining, God speaks.
Wishing you all good mental health.
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