While at The Meadows, patients are encouraged to utilize the listening/feedback format when communicating with one another. The intention is to promote understanding and intimacy while sharing one's reality.

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LISTENING FORMAT

BREATHE ~ BREATHE ~ BREATHE

Remind yourself that this person is risking being intimate by telling you what he is thinking and feeling.

LOOK DIRECTLY AT THE OTHER PERSON AND SAY TO YOURSELF, "I AM SIMPLY FINDING OUT WHO THIS PERSON IS."

LISTEN TO THE PERSON'S THOUGHTS AND DECIDE IF YOU AGREE WITH HIM OR NOT.

YES................ Let yourself feel emotion.

NO................ Notice that two people can experience different realities and that's okay.

???................ Notice any confusion and don't make yourself miserable. Ask for additional data if necessary.

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FEEDBACK FORMAT

When I heard you say...
Repeat what the person said literally.

What I made up about that is...
State your perception, interpretation, thought, reality.

And about that I feel...
Share your emotions.

ANGER    FEAR    JOY    PASSION
SHAME    PAIN    LOVE    GUILT