S2E11: Knowing and not knowing | Systemic ideas in therapy with Ged Smith

Do you approach therapy as an expert? Do you assume a position of knowing what's going on for someone?This episode welcomes Ged, an experienced family therapist, to discuss the balance of knowing and not knowing in therapy. Hosted by Dr. Natalie Stott, the conversation looks at how to handle uncertainty, the use of questions in systemic practice, and why sometimes “not knowing” can be as important as having the answer. The discussion gives practical examples of embedded questions, playful approaches for working with children, and how to manage stuck sessions. Ged also introduces the concept of “1.5 order therapy” working in the grey area between being the expert and being a collaborator. Simple and practical, this episode offers tools for both family and individual therapists to help clients open up, look at problems differently, and create safety in therapy.Highlights include:01:35 Embedded questions and reflexive thinking04:26 Using challenge and managing rupture in therapy08:30 Handling “I don’t know” responses in therapy17:52 What is 1.5 order therapy?30:47 Themes vs. details in therapy sessionsGuest InfoGed Smith is a senior family therapist with expertise in systemic practice and collaborative work in therapy. He is known for his practical approach and clear way of explaining the use of collaboration and curiosity in therapy sessions.For more on Ged's work and publications: HEREGuest Information:Connect with Ged ** Check out Mastering Therapy’s Youtube Channel for all podcast episodes **For notification on up coming episodes and for occasional summaries of tools discussed on the podcast sign up here: www.masteringtherapy.comTo recommend a topic you’d like to hear about, or if you’d like to appear on the podcast please get in touch at www.masteringtherapy.com/guestFor private psychology services and therapy visit www.drnataliestott.com*****Subscribe to the Mastering Therapy Podcast YouTube channelFollow Mastering therapy on instagramConnect with Dr Natalie Stott on LinkedInDisclaimer: The Mastering therapy podcast and the information provided by Dr Natalie Stott (Dclinpsych, HPCP reg), is solely intended for informational and educational purposes and should only be used by qualified professionals. Mentioned in this episode:MASTERING THERAPY WORKSHOPSGet your name on the list to be the first to hear when these workshops go live! https://www.masteringtherapy.com/workshopsGuide