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When presenting themselves for therapy, people are usually jaware that something needs changing. This suggests that something persists which has becomde a problem. As we listen of their stories we often conclude that they have tried a number of ways to improve their situations as they have tried a number of ways to improve their situations as they perceive and live them. So in coming to an expert they anticipate obtaining a new slant on their difficulties that will be beneficial.
Do we get the feeling that the problems result from a deviation from the norm of an existing system which is otherwise adequate, or do we get the feeling that the system ittself needs changing? In the latter case it would mean that one has to “shift gears rather than push the gas pedal to the floorboard” (Watzlawick, Weakland and Fisch, 1974, p. 38). To proceed effectively in making a determination requires learning the patient's language and understanding the patient's conceptual framework (ibid., p. 104).
Perusing the Festchrift in honor of Hyman Spotnitz's 80th birthday (Sheftel, ed., 1991), I am struck by the effectiveness of this premise in developing his uniique theory of technique (reflected in this unique concept of a festschrift). Spontniitz accdepts and amplifies the analysand's position in a way that is not expected, that produces surprise, and even confusion. The effect of this approach is to create a refreshed