When chaos enters the room: Working with complex client presentations

An exploration of the challenges faced by therapeutic practitioners working with a disorganised client and practical strategies to aid clients to settle, engage and take from the therapeutic relationship.

Do you work with clients who seem to throw you with lateness, unusual requests, constantly changing availability? Clients who bring chaos into the therapy room can leave even the most seasoned practitioners behaving differently, moving boundaries or feeling lost in confusion.

This workshop will take a closer look at the ‘chaotic client’ and explore the emotional challenges and practical implications this may have on the therapy. We will aim to understand the developmental foundations of a chaotic process considering attachment and trauma theories.

Through exploration we shall arrive at formulating constructive strategies for practitioners to add to their working tool kit. We will explore different techniques to offer containment and implement boundaries as well as utilising practical case management and review processes. This day will be helpful to all practitioners both trainee and qualified, working in statutory services or private, as well as those working in the voluntary sector.

Day content

An exploration of chaotic presentations; origins from an attachment and developmental perspective, a theoretical overview of projective identification and containment, disorganised adult attachment; childhood sexual abuse and the sense of self; the client/practitioner relationship- with a particular focus on implementing and upholding appropriate boundaries; case review and analysis and experiential self-reflection.

About the Trainer:

Katie Barker-Dovison is a UKCP Registered Integrative Psychotherapist, Couples Therapist for Depression and Clinical Supervisor. With 16 years' experience in the field of Mental Health and Social care. She trained originally within the field of art therapy, prior to training as an Integrative Psychotherapist. Katie currently works within the primary care sector as both a therapist and clinical supervisor; as well as running a successful private practice.