Every following session begins with the question of what has improved since the last meeting. This sets an orientation toward change rather than toward the problem and signals to the client: change is possible and likely. If nothing has improved — that is also important information: one can move to coping questions or review the goal. The "what is better" question is the standard opening of every Bruges session from the second onward.
Step-by-step guide
- Open the session: "What has gotten better since our last meeting?"
- If there are improvements — inquire in detail: "How did it happen? What did you do?"
- If nothing is better: "How do you manage to hold? What kept things from getting worse?"
- On worsening — move to the post-relapse conversation
- Use the answer as the starting point of the session
When to use
- The start of every session from the second onward — a mandatory protocol element
- When assessing the dynamics of treatment
- To maintain orientation toward the solution, not the problem
Key phrases
What has gotten better since our last meeting?
What did you notice that has changed?
Follow-up questions
Even a little — what is at least a little better?
How did you manage to do that?
What does this say about you?
Alternative phrasings
Tell me — what was happening this week? What was important?
Where do you want to start today?
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not interpret the answer "nothing" as a failure or a reason for alarm
- ⚠️ Do not move straight to the problem on a negative answer — first ask about coping
- ⚠️ The question must sound sincere, not formal — otherwise the client gives a socially desirable answer
Source: Isebaert, 2016; coping.us, 2016
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.