There are several goals that I have for my clients, all of which are based on my understanding of how peoples learn.
First, I believe that clients learn the best when they feel comfortable. I always try to create the kind of environment where clients feel encouraged to participate.
Second, clients will retain more of what they learn in a session when they have invested in the process. To that end, I focus on active learning. I always give practical homework to help consolidate things between sessions.
Third, I believe that critical thinking skills are important to client success. Learning to see issues using critical thought and the logical processing of ideas are examples of active learning.
Fourth, clients learn better when their therapist models behavior that they seek to promote in their clients. As a therapist, I seek to model appropriate behavior, the role of constructive criticism and affirmation, and a love of learning to change for the better. I believe my enthusiasm as a therapist to be contagious and effective role model.
