Chapter 8 - Spitting in the Soup

Spitting in the soup can only be used after a strong rapport is established with the client. It can be a somewhat controversial technique to use and the client could end up rejecting it if not used properly. This technique is used to bring about change in a client's behavior by helping them to realize that they may be somehow benefitting from their "problem". The professional counselor acknowledges that the client may continue to use his/her symptoms of the problem, but the client will now know why they have these symptoms. Therefore causing the client to lose their "good taste" of keeping these symptoms. This can be applied to clients who may be having somatic pain symptoms. This can also be used with clients who may be showing symptoms of anxiety or apathy towards a given situation. I think that the use of this technique is very controversial. If it is used incorrectly or a proper rapport is not established with a client, it can backfire. If I use this technique in the future I will be very careful about who I use this with, what situation I apply it to, and how I use it with a given client.