An interaction method of teaching consultation: Role-playing

Abstract

Role-playing is not a reckless undertaking for instructors or seminar participants if they follow a careful progression. First, instructors show standard techniques and how to handle awkward situations. The students first experience role-playing in the familiar role of therapist to differentiate therapy and consultation responses. Then they practice being consultants, anticipating certain pitfalls in consultation. Later, they role-play consultees and discover which consultation interventions work best. Class members gradually set up their own role-play, challenge the limits of each others' styles, and draw upon their real-life experiences in class as a model.