PYC4809
ASSIGNMENT 3 PORTFOLIO 2024
UNIQUE NO. 635198
DUE DATE: 25 SEPTEMBER 2024
, Task 1: Case study
1. Karen’s Basic Conflict and Struggle
Karen’s main conflict revolves around her internal struggle between the values she was
raised with and her growing desire to define her own beliefs and identity. She feels torn
between following the strict moral codes of her Catholic upbringing, which she has
adhered to for most of her life, and the emerging doubts she has about these teachings.
She is caught in a dilemma: on one hand, she feels confined by the rigid expectations
imposed by her religion and culture; on the other, she fears the consequences of
deviating from these expectations, including guilt, self-doubt, and the potential for
eternal damnation. Karen’s struggle is deeply rooted in her fear of making the wrong
decisions and the anxiety that comes with stepping outside the norms she has always
known. She wants to trust herself and live according to her own values but is paralyzed
by the fear of being wrong.
2. Karen’s Dependence on Authority and Managing the Therapeutic Relationship
It’s possible that Karen may be looking to the therapist as another authority figure who
can give her permission to reject some of the moral codes she has been taught. Given
her history of relying on external approval, it’s important to be mindful of this dynamic in
the therapeutic relationship. To test out whether Karen is looking for approval or
disapproval, I might gently explore her expectations of therapy. For example, I could
ask, “Karen, how do you see our work together? Are you hoping that I can provide you
with some answers, or is there something else you’d like to achieve through these
sessions?” This approach can help clarify whether she is seeking validation from me or
if she is genuinely interested in exploring her own beliefs.
As a Gestalt therapist, I would focus on helping Karen become more aware of her
feelings and thoughts in the present moment, encouraging her to explore these
experiences without judgment. The goal is to empower her to recognize and own her
desires and conflicts, rather than looking to me for guidance or approval. By using
techniques like role-playing, empty chair work, or guided imagery, Karen could explore