Private Logic Detective — Clinician dialogue

Invite and obtain permission

Offer: "Would it be useful to explore private logic detective using an ordinary or fictional example? We can adapt it, observe, or stop." Ask what the person wants from the conversation.

Elicit before teaching

Ask: "How does this show up, if at all, in your own words?" Offer this idea tentatively: Personal rules about life can be explored as working beliefs. Ask what fits and what does not.

Guide the task

Complete an if-then rule about belonging, identify its protective purpose, and consider when it does not fit. Ask for permission before giving an example. Use this fictional illustration if useful: Morgan believes that asking for help means being a burden.

Reflect and check accuracy

Reflect only what was offered: "I heard you describe ___. What did I miss?" Ask: What alternative rule leaves more room for choice? Avoid assigning motives or interpreting silence as agreement.

Respond to a mismatch

If the person rejects the frame, say: "Thank you for correcting it. What would be more useful?" Return to their language or choose a different approach.

Close with agency

Ask which observation, question, or support request the person wants to keep. Confirm a manageable ending and appropriate follow-up; do not turn a tentative possibility into a homework obligation.

Prompts for this resource

1. Readiness, permission, cultural context, and access needs to check:
2. What alternative rule leaves more room for choice?
3. What would tell me to adapt, stop, or seek supervision?