How to Coach Yourself and Others Coaching Families | Page 242

Examples:
"When did you divorce your husband and marry your son?"
"You are aware that you have abandoned the family to advance your career?"
"What do you think would be more detrimental for your daughter: missing dance practice once a week for a few
months or having her parents divorce? Do you want to ask your child what her preference is?"

 ASKING PERMISSION
Narrative therapists use permission questions to emphasize the democratic nature of the therapeutic relationship
and to encourage clients to maintain a clear, strong sense of agency when talking with the therapist.
Asking permission to ask a question goes against the prevailing assumption that therapists can ask any question
they want tot gather information they purportedly need to help the client. Many clients feel compelled to
answer these questions, even if they are not comfortable doings so.
Narrative therapists show their sensitivity by asking permission before asking questions that are generally taboo
or concern difficult objects.
Example:
"Would it be okay if I ask you some questions about your sex life?"
In addition, throughout the interview, the therapist may ask for client input and permission to continue with a
particular topic or line of questioning.

 BEGINNER’S MIND
"In the beginner's mind there are many possibilities, in the expert's mind there are few"
Position of curiosity. Viewing experiences as though for the first ti