Car Therapy

The car therapist picks up the client at a prearranged meeting place and drives the car during the session. Traditionally, the therapist drives more or less at random for 50 minutes, while the client discusses whatever is uppermost in their mind. These days, when ecology is more important than ever, therapists usually take their clients to do errands. Many auto therapists are switching to high mileage and hybrid vehicles.Car therapy works because most people are more comfortable talking while seated side by side, rather than face to face. This physical arrangement also allows the therapist to align with the client. Client and therapist are both looking down the road to recovery.

You can tell the therapy is working when the client starts wanting to take conrol. They may change the radio station or start adjusting the heater. It is an ecouraging sign when they start criticizing your driving and make suggestions for short cuts. The therapy is terminated when the client asks to drive.

A skilled car therapist matches their driving style to the needs of the client. For example, if the person you are working with is timid and fearful, driving wildly may help the client learn the joys of risk taking. Your driving can also be used to comment on the conversation. When a good point is raised, you can slam on the brakes as a way to underline the statement. Some of the more radical therapists get into minor accidents to make a point, but I believe that is going too far.

What you see out the window, should be included in the therapy. If you feel the client needs to discuss their father, but are reluctant to do so, you might drive by a Starbucks and say, "Did you know that Starbucks is named afer a character in 'Moby Dick'? Herman Melvile wrote a novel called 'White jacket' which is about his experiences aboard a man of war. The English were surprised that the American navy did so well in the War of 1812. When I was 12 my dad stopped playing baseball with me. What kind of relationship did you have with your father when you were 12?" This same conversation can be used to raise any number of thereaputic issues. For example, someone with a fear of bees could be easily nudged from 'White Jacket' to yellow jacket.

Charge clients either by the minute or the mile. If your client is reluctant to pay, refuse to drive them home until they write a check.

As gas prices rise and global warming gets worse and worse, bicycle built for two therapy becomes more and more attractive. This allows you to combine mental and physical fitness in one session. You will become a cycle-ologist.
Peter Burns