Process of psychotherapy with a person who “can’t break off” the relationship with the problem: Narrative therapy using the knowledge of Morita therapy

Abstract

In this article, the author examines the topics required to consider the use of the externalizing technique and deconstruction in psychotherapy through a clinical case using narrative therapy. The client, a man suffering from depression and feelings of remorse, initially rejected the therapist’s attempt to externalize his problem during the sessions. He hesitated to resist the problem and said, “I can’t break off the relationship with it.” However, application of aspects of Morita therapy, such as acceptance and coexistence with feelings of discomfort, led to deconstruction and therapeutic changes. Based on this study, the author suggests how therapists can use narrative therapy effectively with clients in Japan.