Approach and Withdrawal — Clinician dialogue

Invite and obtain permission

Offer: "Would it be useful to explore approach and withdrawal 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: Moving closer and stepping back can both serve contact. Ask what fits and what does not.

Guide the task

Draw two routes toward and away from a low-stakes interaction, noting their functions and costs. Ask for permission before giving an example. Use this fictional illustration if useful: Rae wants to join a discussion and also wants time to think.

Reflect and check accuracy

Reflect only what was offered: "I heard you describe ___. What did I miss?" Ask: What amount of contact would fit this moment? 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 amount of contact would fit this moment?
3. What would tell me to adapt, stop, or seek supervision?