Technique 1: Scaling

How is the technique implemented?

This technique is pretty simplistic and essentially just asks the client how they feel about a particular situation on a scale from either 1-5 or 1-10.  10 generally being the highest score and 1 the lowest.  Scaling is useful for measuring the progress made towards a clients goal.

What type of situation can the technique be applied to?

The most effective situation to use the scaling technique is whenever the client is having a conflict with meeting a goal.  The scaling technique can show progress towards that goal.  Another situation that would benefit from the scaling technique is using it pictorially with a child to depict emotions.  And a final method of scaling would be in relationships to get a measure of how individuals feel about each other.

What is your opinion of the technique?

The scaling technique is a very good beginning and ending of counseling technique because it gauges progress made or needed.  It is important to use techniques of this nature to be aware of the clients status.  Scaling however, does not provide us much of an interim for counseling and the client would benefit from more free associated related activities.