ABSTRACT
Chapter 4 looks at hope, willingness, and confidence as key elements in the therapeutic process. Expectancy is a primary factor in building a solid foundation for hope. More important than what the therapist actually believes about the probable outcome for the client is the client’s belief about what the therapist believes. Keeping a pulse on a client’s outlook and willingness to work toward change, even when there are setbacks, can help remove potential roadblocks. Setbacks can function as teaching moments to benefit clients and learning opportunities for therapists. Crafting questions with neurolinguistic wording after a setback can turn things around in a constructive, hopeful direction, and communicate a positive outlook. Client strengths emerge and solutions come to light through the use of difference questions, transition questions, and fast-forward questions about what recovery and healing will look like. Crisis is often the best opportunity for intervention and change!
