Using Microanalysis in Solution-Focused Psychotherapy Training: A Description of Two Thesis Modules

This article describes the implementation of microanalysis in two Finnish psychotherapy training programs. Thirty-seven psychotherapy trainees were guided through the process of writing a thesis that applied microanalysis to video recordings of their clinical practice, Trainees reported significant professional growth and improved therapeutic skills from the process, despite language, technical, and knowledge challenges. Using microanalysis, the utterance-by-utterance examination of face-to-face dialogue enhanced the focus on observable behavior, consistent with solution-focused principles. The method also helped trainers assess the trainees' skills and encouraged trainees to pay closer attention to interaction in their practice. The purpose here is to present the rationale, pedagogical approach, structure, and content of the thesis module, ending with a brief description of some trainees' theses. The positive outcomes suggest that microanalysis can be applied in various relational training contexts. The microanalytic principles might also be useful for clinical supervisors and practitioners to develop their practice.