Nonverbal Techniques in Personal Construct Psychotherapy

Abstract

In this article it will be argued that the importance of nonverbal methods in personal construct psychotherapy arises from the basic philosophical and theoretical tenets set out by Kelly (1955) concerning the role of the clinician. The sensitive use of such techniques can greatly enhance both the precision and the experiential impact of the verbal interchange between client and therapist. Two in-depth clinical case studies will be presented to illustrate ways in which nonverbal tasks (predominantly visual) can be employed from diagnosis through the middle and closure phases of the therapy process. This will be done in such a way as to highlight key therapeutic issues, including therapist–client relationship, choice, facilitation of change, “resistance” to change, and issues of identity. Techniques covered include drawing; art postcards, and visual and kinaesthetic imagery techniques.

Notes

Clients name 10 important people (including self) and are asked to list three defining qualities about each person. Recurring themes are considered, contrast poles are elicited, and the constructs are laddered to explore core constructs. This is usually done over several sessions.

Kelly (1955, p. 503) described a person's core role structure as “a part one plays as if one's life depended upon it.”

Following a hypnotic induction, the client is invited to experience a “felt sense” within her body. A back-and-forth process ensues in order to obtain a verbal label, which exactly “fits” this sensation.