Indications and Contraindications in the Use of Therapist's Self-Disclosure

Abstract

The present discussion enunciates the indications and contraindications in the use of therapist's self-disclosure as a technique, method, or procedure in psychotherapy. The controversy regarding the distinctions between counseling and psychotherapy presumably stemmed from Rogers' (1951) introduction of a method of treatment which deviated markedly from classical psychotherapeutic techniques. Perhaps the most salient divergence and radical departure involved the therapist's attitude of congruence—an attitude which accorded the therapist increased authenticity and spontaneity during the therapeutic interaction—which was subsequently labeled by Jourard (1971) as self-disclosure or transparency. This contrasts sharply with the traditional “blank screen” posture characteristic of psychodynamic modes of treatment. The putative clinical advantages of disclosure by the therapist were contrasted with their potential disadvantages. It was tentatively concluded that this procedure might best be regarded as a technique cf counseling rather than one of psychotherapy per se.