A COGNITIVE PERSPECTIVE ON RESISTANCE IN PSYCHOTHERAPY

The phenomena that comprise 'resistance' in therapy are described and discussed from a cognitive viewpoint. The cases of Brian, Julie, and V ictoria are reviewed to illustrate similar and contrasting manifestati ons of resistance, and suggestions for further individualized conceptu alization and intervention are presented. Emphasis is placed on gainin g an accurate, empathic understanding of the client's difficulties in changing. This is coupled with methods that allow the client some auto nomy in charting the course of therapy while reinforcing the importanc e of the therapist's active involvement in educating and stimulating t he client toward greater awareness and adaptability. In order to be ma ximally effective in encouraging such changes, therapists must be awar e of their own tendencies to react adversely to client resistance. If is vital that therapists maintain their professionalism and confidence in persevering toward a better understanding of what will be helpful to their clients. (C) 1996 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.