The early formulation of one central conflict that will organize the whole brief treatment.
Step-by-step guide
- Collect two or three key episodes
- Identify the repeated wish, fear, and defense
- Name the relational pattern in simple language
- Check the formulation with the client
- Use it to guide every session
When to use
- During assessment
- When therapy risks becoming unfocused
- When the client brings many problems that share one pattern
Key phrases
If we had to name the central pattern, it might be this.
Follow-up questions
Does this fit your experience?
Where else does this pattern appear?
Alternative phrasings
This will be our working focus.
We are choosing depth over covering everything.
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not choose the first complaint automatically
- ⚠️ Revise the focus if new evidence contradicts it
- ⚠️ Avoid abstract formulations the client cannot feel
Source: Malan, D. Luborsky, L. Strupp, H
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.