IJSP Number 4, 2022

77 1. Definition and clarification of problems. The main goal is to understand and clarify the patient’s problem, respectively identifying the problem that leads to distress and discomfort; 2. Establishing realistic goals; 3. Generating alternative solutions; 4. Choosing the most efficient solution; and 5. Assessment by the patient of the result of solution implementation [21] The patient is helped in transforming the negative point of view over her interpersonal problems into a positive view. In addition, work must be done on the idea that problems are indispensable elements of life that help us grow and develop. Therefore, the psychotherapist must develop an empathic relationship with the patient, assuring her that the therapist can understand the difficult situation of the patient. A patient who feels understood is going to discuss and reflect upon the possibility that problems are an inherent part of life. The patient is helped in seeing that other people have problems in life and she is not the only one facing such problems – for instance the patient can be asked to imagine different life styles and asked which of them might be realistic [21]. 2.5. Difficulties in working with emotions Gradually, the patient is encouraged to speak more and more about her life, so in time she may admit that some of her thoughts are incorrect. It is imperative to talk to the patient about her present wishes. The psychotherapist has the task of ensuring a predictable environment in which the patient can tell her own life story as a person [22]. Therefore, the patient’s emotions will be unraveled, emotions that the psychotherapist helps the patient recognize and label. Sometimes, when the conversation becomes emotionally challenging for the patient, she may occasionally go back to her delusions. As a consequence, the psychotherapist must find a balance point, talking about the patient’s emotions without too much pres sure. Many times the patients initially say they don’t feel anything, so they must be encouraged in recognizing own emotions, sometimes by identifying the feelings they have towards their psychotherapist (for instance the patient may have been angry with the therapist at some point, etc) [22]. Most of the times schizophrenic patients are marginalized, stigmatized, and people close to them have no patience in relation to them. A psychotherapist who is patient with her client, does not rush the rhythm of psychotherapy, is not disappointed by the patient’s lack of progress and accepts her unconditionally, offers the patient a corrective emotional experience [17]. The only problem is that most of the times psychotherapists grow impatient and expect progress in a rhythm inadequate for the patient. Despite the lack of emotional expression, the schizophrenic patient usually feels intense terror. In order to alleviate symptoms we must therefore identify and work with this unspoken terror. In addition, patients often have anger expression difficulties and feel helpless. As a result, one of the main interventions is emotional resonance and containment – the patient must feel the psychotherapist is on her side and supports her in the identification, feeling and expression of difficult emotions.