| This research explored the process of therapist self-disclosure through the examination of six case profiles. The investigation utilized a qualitative methodology to discover significant variables that guide clinicians in their use of self-disclosure. The subject pool consisted of a culturally diverse group of six female psychodynamic psychotherapists with a minimum of ten years experience. Each subject was interviewed utilizing a semi-structured format. Interview results were analyzed using the grounded theory method of data analysis. Results demonstrate the presence of confusion over the definition of therapist self-disclosure, and lead the author to propose the existence of three defined types of disclosure. Results also suggest that experienced clinicians potentially disclose information from a broad range of topics, and for several different reasons. These reasons include increasing client awareness, normalizing client experiences, and strengthening the therapeutic alliance. And finally, results indicate that decisions related to the use of self-disclosure are complex and multi-faceted. Variables influencing such decisions include factors related to therapists' personal and professional experiences, and cultural background. Factors related to client presentation such as age, diagnosis, and level of similarity to therapist also proved significant. |
