Observations on the Vertical Descent Technique

The purpose of this technique is to uncover the client’s underlying schema or assumptions. This is a very powerful and effective technique when used properly. In many ways it is a markedly psychodynamic technique in that it seeks to make the unconscious (in this case implicit) conscious.

Generally to begin with the client is not aware of their schema and using the technique becomes aware of implicit underlying meanings or assumptions about themselves.  The method for this technique is well outlined in Robert Leahy's book, Cognitive Therapy Techniques: A Practitioner's Guide.

In supervising interns I observe a number of common pitfalls in utilising this technique. Most of the problems with this technique stem from a failure to continue to apply the questions to the level required. The therapist begins the downward arrow technique but fails to go deep enough or get right down to the underlying schema or assumptions. This can happen for a number of reasons.

Therapist Issues

Sometimes the therapist fears offending the client or feels embarrassed by the repetitive questioning involved. The way around this is to have some variation in the questions asked. Leahy has a number of examples of this in his outline of this technique.