to manage discomfort during difficult therapy sessions
Using the MCW Model
There are three steps in the MCW Model, and they are designed to use in
chronological order.
1) Be mindful of the present moment.
2) Cultivate compassion.
3) Respond with wisdom.
This model was designed to use in-session when you notice that you are triggered, beginning to feel upset, or emotionally dysregulated. The objective is to foster a steadiness of heart and mind that can meet each moment, no matter how difficult, with compassion, calmness, and composure. The model can be personalized to match your unique values, beliefs, and strengths.
Read the slides below to learn the steps of the model.
Imagine you're in session, and something makes you uncomfortable. Maybe your client is talking about political or religious beliefs. Or they shared something about their past that triggered you. Or perhaps the problem they're presenting with is beyond your skill and experience level.
Maybe you begin to feel nervous, confused, frustrated, or angry and have the urge to react.
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Let the MCW Model guide you ...
Keep in mind that each step is adaptable
to your skillset, beliefs, and values.
Here's how I would personalize the model:
So, I'm in session, and my client is agitated and tells me that therapy is not helping and that I am a lousy therapist.
I feel insulted and defensive, and I want to blame my client for missing appointments and not being engaged in sessions.
So, instead of reacting, I let the MCW Model guide me to respond to the situation.