A Fresh Look at Permission

Abstract

This article examines the concept of permission by reviewing how it has been defined thus far in the literature. The idea of developing the utility of the concept as a process for clinical practice is introduced. A discussion about how an integrative framework and developmental thinking can be used as a check system for creating effective permission transactions is presented. Positioning permission transactions to be well received by the client can effectively challenge introjected messages in the Parent ego state, enhance Adult ego state functioning, and give the Child ego states just enough nurturing and protection to generate a shift to catharsis.

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Notes on contributors

Karen Ann Brook

Karen Ann Brook, M.S.W., ACSW, BCD, is an ITAA Regular Member, an associate of the Institute for Integrative Psychotherapy in New York City, a licensed marriage and family therapist, and a board certified diplomate in clinical social work. She is director of Community Counseling Service of South Jersey and maintains a private practice in Haddonfield, New Jersey.