In counseling, problem identification and problem solving constitute a recurring process. No matter what the problem, two kinds of forces are always in action: some factors help maintain the problem; other factors are pushing toward change. These can be sketched out in a diagram, as shown below. Suppose the problem being presented is: “I don’t like my job.” The line going across represents the current situation. The arrows pointing upward stand for the factors that ease or lighten the problem. The arrows pointing downward represent the factors aggravating the problem.
If the goal of the client is to be more content at work, this might happen in several ways. The positive forces can be strengthened or others added; or attempts can be made to diminish the negative ones. A similar sketch might be made for alcoholic drinking. This kind of chart can help the counselor decide what factors might be tackled to disturb the present equilibrium.
Left to his own devices, the alcoholic would piddle along for years. The fact that he is sitting in front of you indicates that something has happened to jiggle the equilibrium. This can be a force for change. Take advantage of it. Jiggle the equilibrium further. In the example just given, to take away the family denial or coworker cover-up would blow his whole act. It is becoming widely acknowledged that for the counselor to precipitate such a crisis is the most helpful thing to do.
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