Monotropism in session?
I cant find a place to add the flair, so Im posting this to seek advice. In sessions, I’m noticing i get tunnel vision on spoken content to the detriment of seeing the big picture ( aka focusing on not only spoken word, but also body language). So let’s say hypothetical client presents to session 1 , is speaking rapidly and sharing a lot about the presenting concerns , how their pasts tie into the presenting concern but their body language is pulling away , looking like they want to run away. Years ago, i would have kept going but now I’m trying to be more mindful to take that into account.
Question 1)How would you suggest handling this in real time? ( ie, go with the flow or respond based on their body language . Ie say “I’m sensing you have trepidations, can we pause and look at how you’re feeling now sharing this)
Question 2 : how to i catch myself from falling into this pattern in real time so i can respond appropriately? I believe the indicator that i am about to fall into the pattern is when they are speaking, i sometimes get overwhelmed by word vomiting, also i translate spoken word into imagery so i cant focus on body language at the same time im thinking
Question 3) any tips on how to better summarize the session is important , especially with the clients who word vomit. My brain is constantly staying full to process whats going on so it’s hard to know what main points come up that both the client and i are agreeing on to give homework accordingly. I reached out to my former supervisor who says we arent supposed to use psychotherapy notes due to hippa. Thanks!