I'mprovisation – Therapists' Subjective Experience during Improvisational Moments in the Clinical Encounter. Issue 3 (4th May 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Romanelli, Assael; Moran, Galia S.; Tishby, Orya
• Is Part Of: Psychoanalytic dialogues. Volume 29:Issue 3(2019)
• Page Start: 284
• Page End: 305
• Publication Date: 2019-05-04
• Subjects: Psychoanalysis -- Periodicals; Psychotherapist and patient -- Periodicals; 616.891705
• DOI: 10.1080/10481885.2019.1614836
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1048-1885

Abstract

Abstract : Improvisational (or now) moments can serve as important change mechanisms in psychotherapy. Yet there is little understanding of the therapists' subjective experiences during those Improvisation Experiences (IE). In this pilot study, 17 clinicians reported on their clinical IE following theater improvisation training. Reports were analyzed in relation to three constructs: peak experience, flow, and peak performance. Results show that during IE therapists experience dimensions of peak experience and flow, but not of peak performance. Additional unique dimensions of IE are discussed in relation to different constructs, leading us to name therapists' IE as I'mprovisation . Recommendations practice and training are discussed.