Volume 27, Issue 1
DOI: 10.24205/03276716.2017.1042
Common Errors and Difficulties of Novice Therapists
Abstract
Exploring the problems that novice therapists face has been neglected as a research topic but it is necessary in order to prevent iatrogenesis and to improve professional training. This investigation, consid- ering both the novice and the expert supervisor's point of view, explored the main mistakes and difficulties of systemic-oriented novice therapists. The most important mistakes detected was: (1 - beliefs and attitude) an omnipotent, or excessively insecure and anxious attitude; (2 - relationship) lack of spontaneity, pushing too fast, and counter-transference mistakes; (3 – technical) problems in diagnosis and co-construction of the main theme for therapy. The most common difficulty was working with unmotivated and uncooperative patients. Results are discussed with their implications for professional training.