JZ's resistance continues to delay progress in working through his hoard. We have been scheduled each week for at least a two-hour session, and JZ has cancelled the last two appointments. Resistance is a normal part of hoarding behavior, and one of the most difficult things is to work through the resistance and help the client to actually make progress on resolving issues.
JZ is very focused right now on re-establishing his social network and becoming more social. He has been isolated for a long time, and misses the interaction with others. He has made great progress in seeking out social activities, which is a step in the right direction for him as far as working through his depression and other issues. However, his focus on socializing has interfered in his ability to commit to working on his hoarding.
In order to help JZ to allow appropriate time to address his hoarding behaviors, I have begun to give him assignments between meetings and then check in with him throughout the week to see if he has made made any progress, and if so, how much. This week, during our meeting, I will encourage his addressing the clean-up process by discussing how he can help his social life immensely by cleaning up his hoard.
Currently, JZ does not invite people to his home, as he is embarrassed by the mess he lives with, and because, truthfully, there is no place to sit! Perhaps my discussing with him how the clean-up will help his social life, he will be encouraged and motivated to truly engage in the process.
More later......
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