Isomorphism

This three-part workshop presentation explores the _ideas of Milton Erickson on the therapeutic relationship and the therapeutic use of metaphor, and applies these ideas to experiential education and adventure therapy. Part 1 introduces the practitioner to the core philosophy within an Ericksonian approach: "utilization" of a client's behavior and symptoms as the material for therapy. In order to utilize this material, the practitioner must develop observational skills to pick up on the minimal cues provided by the client. Zeig's diamond model of the therapeutic relationship describes the "position " of the practitioner in relation to the client and the "posture " or stance of the practitioner within the relationship. Position involves perception, power, compassion, and social role, while postures include response readiness, creativity for change, perceptual acuity, indirect communication or metaphor