Allowing and Accepting Painful Emotional Experiences

LESLIE S. GREENBERG; SANDRA C. PAIVIO

Authors

LESLIE S. GREENBERG Author
SANDRA C. PAIVIO Author

Keywords:

Experiences

Abstract

In this article, the authors describe a process-diagnostic approach to working with emotion. This involves using different interventions at different times, depending on what emotional process the client is currently engaged in. One such process, the allowing and accepting of pain, is discussed. The phenomenological experience of pain as a state of brokenness and the steps involved in resolving that type of emotional pain are discussed. The steps include overcoming avoidance, reowning, mobilizing an unmet need, having an awareness of maladaptive beliefs, and finally feeling relief and self-affirmation. The authors also demonstrate that emotional change leads to change in meaning.

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Allowing and Accepting Painful Emotional Experiences

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