Student

Explain how countering will help an elderly individual who has recently had a small stroke and is afraid of falling which in turn makes her resist physical therapy.

      The Countering Method enables client to identify “counters” for each of their significant irrational beliefs and then argue against those beliefs. In using the countering method a therapist must allow the client to follow six steps in an attempt to change their belief of the issues that plague them.   In order for the client to be successful using this method, the counter must be opposite to the false belief, it must be a believable statement of their reality, and it must be briefly summarized in a few words stated with an affirmation of expressive passion.   The client must on approach the counter automatically and persuasively, making the counter personal by owning it. Our team will attempt to explain countering in an elderly client who has recently had a small stroke and is afraid of falling which in turn makes her resistant to physical therapy. We will explore the use of countering methods the therapist can use to help the client apply to getting over the fears of her stroke.

After any major setback in an elderly persons health there are common fears, falling is a legitimate concern for the elderly, especially after a stroke making it their reality. Therapists can initiate a discussion about their clients fears of falling, , and encourage the client to assert small goals to combat those fears and its negative consequences by allowing them to express and validate those fears. Reinforce the small steps with praise and make them feel secure. Explaining to the client that because of her stroke the risks of falling are substantial because of gait and balance, but at the same time helping the client to form scenarios of other likely problems that could develop because of her resistance and reluctance to seek physical therapy and face her fears of having the stroke. The therapist should also... [continues]

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