A classic diagnostic question: "If I could wave a magic wand and your symptom disappeared tomorrow morning — what would change in your life?" The answer points to the life task the client is avoiding. Whatever they name — work, relationships, intimacy — is what the symptom "protects" them from.
Step-by-step guide
- Ask The Question in its classic wording
- Give the client time to think — do not rush
- Listen to the answer, clarify the details
- If 'nothing would change' — ask about small things, about the reactions of people close to them
- Link the answer to the life tasks (work, friendship, love)
- Discuss: could the symptom be a way of avoiding this task?
When to use
- In the first sessions, for diagnostic purposes
- When the client is fixated on the symptom
- To differentiate organic from psychogenic complaints
- When you need to reveal the avoided life task
Key phrases
If I could wave a magic wand and your symptom disappeared tomorrow morning — what would change in your life?
Imagine the problem is gone. What would be different?
Follow-up questions
What would you do differently?
What would the people close to you notice?
What opportunity would this open up?
Alternative phrasings
What would become possible if this problem were not there?
If you woke up tomorrow without it — what would your day look like?
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not use it as a coaching 'magic wand' — it is a diagnostic tool
- ⚠️ The client may not immediately see the link between symptom and avoidance
- ⚠️ Do not argue if the client says 'nothing would change' — inquire further
Source: Adler A. The Practice and Theory of Individual Psychology
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.