Training the client to choose an emotion-regulation strategy according to context: when to solve the problem, when to accept, when to reappraise, and when to seek support.
Step-by-step guide
- Identify the client's usual emotion-regulation strategy
- Show that a strategy may work in some situations and fail in others
- Introduce the controllable vs uncontrollable situation distinction
- For the current situation, ask what can actually be changed
- If change is not possible, select acceptance, reappraisal, or support
- Practice noticing strategy choice during the week
When to use
- Modules 2-3
- When the client is stuck in one strategy, such as avoidance or rumination
Key phrases
Which strategy fits this situation, not just your habit?
Follow-up questions
Can the situation be changed?
If it cannot be changed, what kind of response is useful?
What happens when you use the same strategy everywhere?
Alternative phrasings
Flexibility means choosing, not always doing the same thing.
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not impose one 'correct' strategy
- ⚠️ Avoidance can sometimes be adaptive; evaluate context
Source: Mennin et al. 2018
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.