What is Clean Language?
Clean Language is a simple set of questions used with a person’s own words to direct their attention to some aspect of their own experience. It helps coaches, mentors or counsellors explore the thoughts and feelings of others without the bias of the persona driving the conversation. Here, creative sector coach and mentor Alec McPhedran a simple overview of the concept. Clean Language is a communication method developed by David Grove, a New Zealand psychotherapist, in the 1980s. It is designed to help individuals explore their thoughts and feelings without the interference of the coach or counsellors own interpretations, assumptions, or suggestions. The approach uses a specific set of questions and a non-directive style to facilitate clients' self-exploration and insight. Here are the key components and principles of Clean Language: Components Metaphor Exploration Clean Language often focuses on the metaphors people naturally use to describe their experiences. By exploring these metaphors, individuals can gain deeper insights into their thoughts and feelings. Clean Questions The method employs a series of simple, structured questions that are designed to minimize the influence of the questioner. These questions typically include: - "What kind of [word/phrase] is that?" - "Is there anything else about [word/phrase]?" - "Where is [word/phrase]?" - "That’s [word/phrase] like what?" Non-Directive Approach The questions are designed to be open-ended and to keep the focus on the client's experience, encouraging them to elaborate on their own terms rather than being led by the therapist's ideas. Attention to Client's Language Clean Language practitioners pay close attention to the exact words and phrases used by the client. They mirror these words back in their questions to maintain the integrity of the client’s expression and to avoid introducing new concepts or biases. Principles Client-Centred The process is centred around the client's own language and experiences. The therapist's role is to facilitate exploration rather than to interpret or provide solutions. Respect and Non-Judgment Clean Language operates on the principle of respecting the client's worldview and understanding without judgment. It acknowledges that the client's metaphors and expressions are meaningful and valuable. Facilitating Self-Discovery The primary goal is to help clients discover their own insights and understandings. By using Clean Language, clients can often uncover hidden connections and new perspectives on their issues. Applications Clean Language can be used in various contexts, including therapy, coaching, education, and organizational development. It is particularly useful in situations where understanding and exploring personal experiences, motivations, and goals is crucial. An example Here is a brief example of how a Clean Language session might go: Client: "I feel like I'm stuck in a rut." Coach: "And what kind of rut is that rut?" Client: "It's like a deep groove in the ground." Coach: "And is there anything else about that deep groove in the ground?" Client: "Yes, it's dark and hard to climb out of." Coach: "And where is that dark and hard to climb out of deep groove in the ground?" Through this process, the client is encouraged to explore their own description and potentially uncover more about their feelings of being "stuck." Clean Language offers a powerful way to help individuals articulate and understand their internal experiences without external contamination, fostering clarity and self-awareness. How do I use Clean Language? Using Clean Language involves learning and practicing its core techniques and principles to facilitate deeper self-exploration for clients. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started: 1 Familiarize Yourself with Clean Language Questions Clean Language uses a set of structured questions to guide the conversation. These questions are designed to be open-ended and non-directive. Here are some of the basic Clean Language questions: Developing Questions - "What kind of [X] is that [X]?" - "Is there anything else about [X]?" - "Where is [X]?" - "That’s [X] like what?" - "What happens just before [X]?" - "What happens next?" Sequencing Questions - "Then what happens?" - "And what happens just before [X]?" Intention Questions - "What would you like to have happen?" - "And what needs to happen for [X]?" - "Can [X] happen?" 2 Pay Close Attention to the Client's Language Listen carefully to the exact words and phrases your client uses. Reflect these words back in your questions to avoid introducing your own interpretations or biases. This helps maintain the purity of the client's expression. 3 Use Metaphors Clients often use metaphors to describe their experiences. When a metaphor is used, explore it using Clean Language questions. For instance, if a client says, "I feel like I'm climbing a mountain," you might ask: - "What kind of mountain is that mountain?" - "Is there anything else about that mountain?" - "Where is that mountain?" 4 Stay Non-Directive and Non-Judgmental Your role is to facilitate the client's self-discovery, not to offer interpretations or solutions. Keep your questions open-ended and refrain from giving advice or making judgments. 5 Practice Mindfulness and Presence Be fully present in the conversation. This helps you to accurately reflect the client's language and remain attuned to their experience. Example Conversation Here’s an example of how a Clean Language session might unfold: Client: "I guess I feel like I'm carrying a heavy burden." Facilitator: "And what kind of burden is that burden?" Client: "Erm… It's like a big, heavy backpack." Facilitator: "And is there anything else about that big, heavy backpack?" Client: "Yes, it's filled with rocks." Facilitator: "And where is that big, heavy backpack filled with rocks?” Client: "It's on my back, weighing me down." Facilitator: "And what happens when that big, heavy backpacking you down?" Client: "I struggle to move forward." Facilitator: "And when you struggle to move forward, what would you like to have happen?" Client: "I’d like to take the backpack off." Facilitator: "And can you take the backpack off?" Client: "I’m not sure how." Facilitator: "And what needs to happen for you to take the backpack off?" This example illustrates how Clean Language questions can help a client explore their metaphor and gain deeper insights into their situation. How can I practice and develop Clean Language skills? Role-Playing Practice with a colleague or friend by role-playing client and facilitator roles. Workshops and Training Consider attending workshops or training sessions on Clean Language to deepen your understanding and skills Self-Reflection Regularly reflect on your sessions to identify areas for improvement and ensure you are staying true to the principles of Clean Language. By consistently applying these techniques, you can effectively use Clean Language to facilitate meaningful and insightful conversations with clients. Alec McPhedran Chtd Fellow CIPD, Chtd Mngr CMI, MAC, MCMI is a recognised creative sector coach and mentor. He specialises in one to one talent coaching, facilitated learning, media training and team development. For further information, visit www.mcphedran.co.uk. Copyright © Alec McPhedran 2024
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AuthorAlec McPhedran is a long established creative arts coach and mentor. Archives
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