Chapter 11 - Empty Chair

The empty chair technique can be used after establishing rapport and having built trust with a client. There are six steps to implementing this technique. The first step is an explanation of why the counselor is using this technique and setting up two chairs to demonstrate the polarity of the situation. Next, the counselor works with the client to "deepen the experience" by having the client choose the side for which he/she has the strongest feelings. After this the client will express the dominant side of the polarity. Once the client has done this, they will then sit in the opposite chair to express a reverse argument. During the fifth step in this sequence, the counselor will have the client switch seats until each side is clearly articulated. The final step is to have the client focus on blending the two sides to create harmony. This technique can be used with clients who may be dealing with post traumatic stress, and those who may have unfinished business or need closure in a situation. I do like this technique to help a client express conflicting emotions or help a client discover emotions that may be lurking beneath the surface.