ABSTRACT
Redecision therapy begins with a clear and focused contracting approach, where the therapist facilitates the development of a clear contract for change. Passive language is confronted in the client's discussion of their problems/situation or contract goals, and the ‘language of response-ability’ is encouraged (such as changing ‘can’t’ to ‘won’t’). After a redecision piece, the therapist invites the client to generate a series of behavioural contracts regarding how they will maintain their redecision in their everyday life. The Gouldings’ model was developed primarily in a residential therapy marathon setting, whereby clients would attend for at least a week, and commonly as long as a month. The techniques of redecision therapy are often dramatic and engaging and can involve deep catharsis. This can be very seductive and a therapist can mistake catharsis for real change. It is possible that some clients effectively ‘go through the motions’ and engage in redecision pieces as an overadaptation to the therapist without any change taking place.
