Collaborative case formulation work in emotion focused therapy: a process microanalytic study

To better understand how case formulations are developed in client-therapist interactions, we investigated examples to identify the implicit defining characteristics of CFW and therapist response modes (TRMs) present in them.

Using recordings of well-known EFT therapists, we extracted all examples of CFW by client and therapist, applying open-ended qualitative process-description to identify their implicit defining characteristics. This was followed by coding TRMs used.

We found five defining features of collaborative CFW for therapist and client: reflective (vs. narrative), connective (vs. dealing with isolated elements), previously unspoken (vs. repeated), collaborative (vs. unilateral), and primary (vs. secondary to another activity). We also identified the TRMs present in CFW, the three most common being: empathic formulation, empathic conjecture, and empathic refocusing.

In providing a research-based definition of CFW, we highlighted the breadth and collaborative nature of CFW. By highlighting the role of empathic conjecture and refocusing in CFW, we hope to more effectively guide therapeutic practice. Thus, this study illustrates a promising, new micro-analytic approach to studying types of therapist intervention.