SOCRATIC QUESTIONING FOR DUMMIES (AND SMART THERAPISTS TOO!)
Helen Kennerley
5th May 2010
Socratic questioning has been called “the cornerstone of cognitive therapy” (Padesky 1993) – but how many therapists wonder just what is meant by “Socratic questioning?” How do other therapists do it? When is it appropriate to use other forms of questioning? How can we avoid “psycho-bulldozing”?
This practically based workshop aims to explore the purposes of asking questions in cognitive therapy and to present the therapist with an opportunity to reflect on, and rehearse, their questioning style. There are many ways of using Socratic questions, so participants will be presented with a range of examples of Socratic questions and different therapeutic styles. It will be relevant to both experienced and recently qualified cognitive therapists who want to develop or refresh their basic skills, and ensure that they get the most from guided discovery.
Delegates will be encouraged to use their own experiences in the practical sessions.
Programme:
• What do we want to achieve through questioning in therapy?
• Caution & curiosity: the “dos” and “don’ts”
• Socratic questioning: in assessment and conceptualisation
• Socratic questioning: in challenging unhelpful perspectives
• Socratic questioning: in problem solving and planning
Level: All levels (basic – advanced)
Cost: £125
Venue: McInnes Room, Warneford Hospital
