ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how therapists can utilize the foundational ideas of interactional theory (presented in Chapter 4) to help them decide what to do while engaging clients in the therapeutic endeavor. Ideas are presented about what techniques therapists can use that are informed by interactional theory and how these can be implemented in the therapy room. These include an exploration of communication, focusing on process rather than content, attempting second order rather than first order change, as well as the use of paradox. The information is presented as it relates to a hypothetical case of a Jewish-American family who are dealing with several issues including a child diagnosed with ADD, a husband who is gambling, and a teen daughter desiring more dating autonomy.
