Mumbling. A defense mechanism in therapy resistance

Mumbling is a defense mechanism that is evidenced in therapy as resistance. Although mumbling is frustrating and annoying at times, it may be a helpful clue to some of the client's most anxiety-provoking thoughts or feelings. If the therapist can note the timing of the mumbling or the tone that accompanies it, these may be the first steps in focusing on the client's most resisted areas in therapy.