Re: Assessment inventories
APRIL E. METZLER ( aem3@lehigh.edu )
Thu, 21 Sep 1995 16:31:02 EDT
I have been following the recent series of thoughts about the impact of
assessment in psychotherapy. I agree with Devi that it is more important how
assessment is introduced and used in terms of the therapuetic relationship.
Both client and counselor could conclude that appropriate assessment might be
meaningful in therapy. This is really just basic to the appropriate use of
assessment in therapy.
I also think that the counselors construction of the therapuetic value of
the instrument being used comes into question. Why use an instrument that
you might not find meaningful in terms of the clients experience and
construction of him/herself? For my own work, I find the work of Theodore Millon
very useful. His assessment instruments are theorectically based on how the
client has experienced the world.
Finally, must the therapist "wave their wand and tell
the client now I know you?" Couldn't the therapist state the limitations of
the instrument and ask "does this fit how you see yourself, how you might
react or your past experience?" The counselor and client could use this as
just another way to gain a better understanding.
To add to this discussion, I would be interested in hearing if other PCP
therapists see any connection between Kelly and Millon's work. Important
differences?
Hope to hear more on this, April
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April E. Metzler Telephone: (610) 758-6093
Lehigh University/Mountaintop Campus Facsimile: (610) 758-6223
111 Research Drive/Bethlehem, PA 18015-4792 USA Internet: aem3@lehigh.edu
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