The Process of Reorganization of Self-Concept in Adults and the Crossings Generated from the Therapeutic Relationship:

An Experience Report from a Clinical Psychology Intern

Abstract

The present study discusses the reorganization process of self-concept in adults within the context of psychological clinical practice. The aim is to deepen understanding of the subjective and professional experience of the psychotherapist as a facilitator in this process through the therapeutic relationship established with the client. Therefore, a qualitative approach and the method of experiential reporting were chosen, considering that the investigated context relates to the researcher's supervised internship experience. The practice took place at an Integrated Psychology Service in Fortaleza, during the 8th to 10th semesters of the Psychology course. The researcher engaged in individual psychotherapy with adults, grounded in the Person-Centered Approach (PCA). Through the achieved results and their discussion, it was possible to comprehend how the reorganization of self-concept can occur in the clinical context with adults. The provision of facilitating conditions and the establishment of a good therapeutic relationship were identified as central to this process. In addition, it was possible to conclude that the fact that the psychotherapist allows herself to be affected by the client's experience is positive, but it is essential that she bases her practice on supervision, on her own personal psychotherapy and on a continuous training process. Finally, two proposals for future studies were suggested, focusing on investigating the phenomenon of self-concept reorganization from the client's perspective, as the current study is based on the psychotherapist's observations and perceptions.