ABSTRACT
This chapter explains how an understanding of others first requires some understanding of the self. The therapist brings their own values, beliefs and experiences to the therapeutic relationship. Awareness means being sensitive to personal cultural issues and to think about how own cultural identity influences understanding and acceptance of others who are like the people and different from them. Discussion about the therapist self cannot continue without addressing concepts of power; a key term in systemic thinking, which has already been alluded to several times. Systemic therapists are often transparent about their method of work, beliefs, values and personal experiences in therapy, as a way of putting themselves on an equal, or collaborative level with the client. This helps them to be more aware of what is being said in therapy sessions, what is happening in therapy and point out the things which may influence the therapeutic relationship.
