urgent

Interpretations provide alternative frames of reference or perspectives for events in a client’s life. In the following examples, provide an attending response (question, reflection of feeling, or the like) and then write an interpretation. Include a check-out in your interpretation.

“I didn’t get the promotion. I’ve been there the longest and have even been training the new staff and showing them how we use the software. But this is the third time they’ve chosen someone junior to me. I really wonder what’s going on.”

Listening response:

From earlier discussions, you suspect gender is an issue. Write an interpretation/reframe from that frame of reference.

From earlier discussions, you suspect race or ethnicity is an issue. Write an interpretation/reframe from that frame of reference.

From earlier discussion, you suspect age or disability is an issue. Write an interpretation/reframe from that frame of reference.

Assume that you are a senior manager who seeks to defend the company. What would an interpretation/reframe be from that frame of reference?

Now, provide an interpretation/reframe from your own perspective.

A teen comments: “I’m tired of being bullied about being gay. The teasing goes on and on. Just getting up each morning and facing school is awful. Each day seems to get worse. I’m dreaming of it every night. Last night I dreamed that I was flying and could do anything I wanted. I just flew away into a quiet space. Then I got very frightened, and it was so quiet. But suddenly, it almost felt comfortable.”

Listening response:

Write an interpretation/reframe from a psychodynamic frame of reference.

Write an interpretation/reframe from a multicultural frame of reference.

Write an interpretation/reframe from a conservative anti-gay frame of reference.

Now provide an interpretation/reframe from your own perspective.

The preceding examples of interpretations and reframes are representations of value and theoretical issues that you will find in counseling and therapy. What is your personal position on these issues? Interpretations/reframes come from the counselor’s life and experience. Finally, how do you reconcile the importance of client responsibility for her or his own behavior with your position? What would you actually do in these situations?

Use this space to reflect on the above questions