In
the previous track, we discussed steps one and two of the Cognitive Behavior Therapy KISS,
Keep It Small and Simple, technique with a depressed client; set
an attainable goal and keep it simple. In this track, we will
discuss steps three through five of the KISS technique.
Steps 3, 4, & 5 of the KISS CBT Technique
  Step
3: Andrea needed to make an approach plan. Developing an approach
plan enabled Andrea to map out the best possible route to her goal and allowed
her to clarify how she was going to get the job done. This increased her efficiency
and decreased the potential for obstacles to hamper her progress. To make an approach
plan with Andrea, Colleen did the following four steps:
a. First, Establish checkpoints: Colleen helped Andrea break the task at hand
into small pieces. Colleen guided Andrea not to worry about the sequence of events,
but rather try to envision an overview of checkpoints.
b. Second, Predict problems and obstacles: Colleen had Andrea identify any
potential obstacles or problems she might encounter. Next, how she can prevent
these problems or overcome these obstacles. Solutions may include the time-management
techniques discussed in the next track.
c. Third, Prepare
for the task: Colleen helped Andrea make a list of what she needed to have
on hand in order to accomplish her goal. This list needed to be as specific as
possible, and include how or where they will obtain these prerequisites. With
Andrea, this was as simple as obtaining boxes and labels for storage and marking
the contents of each box. Then, have your client add these preparation steps to
their list.
d. Fourth, Plan some rewards: Colleen
helped Andrea identify rewards she could build into her plan as added incentives
to keep working towards their goal. Although accomplishing the goal will be a
reward in itself, it is beneficial to include a few positive reinforcements along
the way. Colleen suggested to Andrea, she might buy herself a small present, read
a magazine, take a bubble bath, get a massage, or go out to a nice restaurant
for dinner after accomplishing steps toward the closet cleaning project. Colleen
also emphasized that Andrea should verbally praise and reward herself every step
of the way and when the goal is accomplished.
Step
4: Have your client schedule their steps. Colleen had Andrea
look over her approach plan and helped her select what she would do first; determine
how much time it would take; decide exactly when she would begin; if it would
take a number of days or weeks to complete, how long she intended to spend on
it each day. On their personal calendar, have them pencil the task into their
schedule, and have them repeat this process for the second, third, fourth, and
fifth tasks. To avoid overwhelming and overburdening them, and also to be able
to see progress, have them avoid scheduling more than five tasks.
Step
5: It is important that they do what they have planned. One at a time,
Andrea should perform each task and adhere to their schedule. Colleen told Andrea
if she found she could not spend as much time as she had scheduled, make the most
of the time you can devote to the task. As you know, procrastination, leaving
things half-finished, or giving up before even beginning are not easy habits to
break. Your client may be tempted to talk themselves out of doing what they had
planned. Other times, they will find themselves moping and brooding, as they did
in the past.
Colleen
warned Andrea about procrastination, and suggested that she try the "five
minute plan." Colleen told her to make a pact with herself to devote just
five minutes to the task she had scheduled. After five minutes, she has the option
of going back to doing nothing. Usually after five minutes are up, have you found,
like I have found about myself, you are willing and able to continue?
Would
this process, that allows your depressed client to keep tabs on where they are
at in accomplishing their goals, be of assistance to you in your next session?
I have found the KISS technique reminds client that they are making progress,
moving forward, and accomplishing things. Each accomplishment then, of course,
adds to their sense of competence and self-worth. In short the more they do, the
better they will feel.
Online Continuing Education QUESTION 9
What should you do to avoid clients feeling overwhelmed and overburdened,
and also to be able to see progress? To select and enter your answer go to .
|
