The focus, however, is on a client's expertise, spotlighting their wealth of know-how on their life. In this vein, a client also helps orchestrate their therapy, having a voice in decisions about it such as who should be talking with whom, when, where, and about what. If a therapist has an opinion, for instance, about the membership of therapy, they would express it, give the reason for it, and encourage discussion. Yet, at the same time they would respect a client's strong preference.
A therapist does not deny expertise, pretend to lack it, nor downplay it. From a collaborative perspective, importance is placed on a different kind of therapist expertise: a "know-how" in inviting and maintaining a space and process for collaborative relationship and dialogical conversation. I would not assume that I know better than a couple about how to deal with betrayal or forgiveness. We can talk about an issue in many ways and I can introduce my ideas but I want to be careful about my intent, timing, and manner. For instance, when there is an opportunity for me to speak I might say: "While you were talking I was remembering a research article that I read recently about betrayal and forgiveness in couples. The couples had somewhat similar but not exactly the issue you are struggling with. Would you be interested in hearing what the article said?" I pay careful attention to their response and do not place a value on or interpret interest or disinterest. If they indicate disinterest, then I let it go. I am careful not to value, privilege, nor revere myself as a better knower than a client.
