Querying extremes

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Clients can also be asked to describe the extremes of their concerns, to imagine worst consequences. This activity can sometimes help when a client is expressing little desire for change. For instance, you may ask:

  • ‘What concerns you the most?’
  • ‘What are your worst fears about what might happen if you don’t make a change?’
  • ‘What do you suppose are the worst things that may happen if you keep on the way you’ve been going?’

It can also be useful to ask the client the best possible consequences that might happen after pursuing a change (e.g., exploring the opposite extreme), such as:

  • ‘What could be the best results if you did make the change?’
  • ‘If you were completely successful in making the changes you want, how would things be different?’