ABSTRACT
Training clients to use inference chaining is quite complex and, in all probability, only a minority of clients will be able to do it effectively. Remember that the purpose of inference chaining is to identify the client’s A and not necessarily to identify underlying rigid/extreme attitudes. Of course, it can and has been used in this way, particularly by cognitive therapists. Finally, after the therapist has worked with a client for some time, they begin to gain an understanding of the types of As about which the client disturbs themselves. Later on in the therapeutic process, when it becomes clearer that a client has one or more core or general rigid/extreme attitudes about recurring themes at A, the therapist can work at a more abstract level to help them identify and work with core rigid/extreme attitudes towards thematic As..
