For Therapists:
Because the triad is made up of three dyads (client and therapist, client and surrogate, and therapist and surrogate), assessments are constantly made and explored. The open communication between surrogate and therapist is an essential element of the model which allows the surrogate to share and report back around discoveries relating to breakthroughs and potential roadblocks. The therapist, being fully trained and having an existing trusting relationship with the client can then be prepared for what comes about in the therapy sessions and make observations and recommendations for treatment with the surrogate. Beyond their own treatment, the client has a huge role to play in the triad as well, by sharing and expressing boundaries, limitations, and growth. They help set the pace and are asked to interrogate their own process and conversation with both the therapist and the surrogate.
As a therapist you may have questions:
Do I need to be involved for my client to see a Surrogate?
Yes, your involvement is important to the success of the work. We will speak on a regular basis and share information (with explicit release from client) about progress and next steps.
In our discussions of the case, issues for processing and further exploration with the client may arise.
As the referring therapist, you act a bit as the gatekeeper- should the work prove unproductive and or as the work draws to an end, it is imperative that the client have your support and be able to process this with you. If the client is damaging or sabotaging the work, for you to step in and help facilitate the repair by digging into what is motivating their behaviors.
Do I need to have experience working with a surrogate?
No, you do not need to have previous experience working with a surrogate. As long as you are willing to be in contact on a regular basis, open to discussion about the process, and interested/open to learning from the training I have and sharing the knowledge you possess, we will work together well.
Are you working under my license?
No, I am a private practitioner and do not work under your license.