Therapist Quote by Elliot Greene
““A way to do this is to "hand back" the projection to the client. For example, if the client says, "You're making me feel really jumpy today," the therapist could say, "Are you feeling jumpy today?" If the client says, "You must be feeling really tired after doing so many massages," the therapist can ask the client, "How are you feeling? Are you feeling tired?" If the client seems to be anticipating the future, the therapist can ask, "Is this what you are expecting will happen?" These responses must be made in a casual and nonchallenging manner. Asking in a manner that is too penetrating makes the client feel self-conscious and possibly judged. Handing back a projection is a good strategy because projections are a way a person puts, displaces, gets rid of, or abandons something of him- or herself into the environment and away. By handing it back, the therapist gives the client an opportunity to become more aware of it as belonging to him- or herself.””
About This Quote
Source Therapy Manual: "Projection Hand‑Back Technique" by Elliot Greene, 2020
Describes a therapist method of reflecting a client’s projected feelings back to them in a non‑judgmental way to increase self‑awareness
In simple terms: Therapist mirrors client’s feelings to promote insight
Use reflective questioning to foster client insight
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- counseling sessions
- psychotherapy training
- conflict resolution
- personal coaching
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you ensure questions feel safe?
- When is direct reflection more effective than indirect?
Risk of sounding confrontational if not carefully phrased