Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

Which of the following techniques is commonly used in psychoanalytical family therapy?

1. Role-playing

2. Listening and empathy

3. Behavior modification

4. Cognitive restructuring

The correct answer is: Listening and empathy

Listening and empathy are fundamental techniques in psychoanalytical family therapy. This approach emphasizes understanding the emotional content and underlying unconscious processes of family interactions. By employing active listening and fostering empathy, therapists aim to create a safe environment where family members can express their feelings and experiences openly. This deepened understanding helps to pinpoint relational dynamics and conflicts that may be rooted in family history or individual psychological issues. In contrast, the other techniques listed are not typically central to psychoanalytical family therapy. Role-playing is more associated with therapeutic approaches that focus on behavior change and social skills development. Behavior modification focuses on altering specific behaviors through reinforcement strategies, and cognitive restructuring is often used in cognitive-behavioral therapy to challenge and change unhelpful thought patterns. While these approaches might be useful in other contexts, they do not align with the core principles of psychoanalytical family therapy, which prioritizes insight and emotional connection.