Resistance from clients can be frustrating. But what does it really mean is happening?

Resistance from clients in systemic family therapy can be particularly frustrating for therapists, but it often signals deeper underlying issues that need to be addressed. Resistance is not simply a refusal to participate or engage; it represents a complex interaction of emotions, beliefs, and dynamics within the family system.

When clients resist, it typically means that there is a significant level of discomfort or fear regarding the changes therapy might bring. For some family members, the established patterns, even if dysfunctional, offer a sense of predictability and security. Change can threaten this stability, leading to resistance. Additionally, resistance can indicate a lack of trust in the therapist or the therapeutic process. Clients may have had negative past experiences with therapy or may not yet feel safe enough to open up and be vulnerable.

Resistance also highlights the presence of conflicting motivations within the family. Each member may have different levels of willingness to change, varying degrees of insight into the issues, and diverse perceptions of the problem. This can result in some members pushing back against the process, either overtly or subtly, to protect their own viewpoints or roles within the family.

For therapists, understanding and working through resistance involves creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood. It requires patience, empathy, and the ability to navigate the complex web of relationships and emotions that contribute to resistance. By addressing the root causes of resistance, therapists can help clients move past their fears and engage more fully in the therapeutic process, ultimately leading to more effective and lasting change.

Joining therapeutically is a crucial technique in systemic family therapy that can significantly help with resistance to change. The process involves the therapist actively engaging with the family system in a manner that fosters trust, rapport, and a sense of alliance. Here’s how it aids in overcoming resistance: SEE NEXT BLOG INSTALLMENT FOR JOINING!