Open Dialogue

“The idea of Open Dialogue … is to meet with the full human being in their relational context, in which the specific ‘symptoms’ are secondary.” — Jaakko Seikkula

Developed by Finnish clinical psychologist Jaako Sekkula, Open Dialogue is a social-constructionalist approach to working with severe kinds of psychological and emotional distress and crises¹. Originally developed for working with people struggling with altered states and unusual experiences/beliefs, Open Dialogue has gained international consideration and has since been utilized to work with many different types of acute situations.

Open Dialogue follows seven distinct key markers that sets it apart from traditional psychiatric interventions. Following a person-centered, person-in-environment, and strengths-based approach that allows for flexibility around individual context, Open Dialogue is one of the most innovative forms of intervention in the mental health field today.

The 7 Key Principles of Open Dialogue²

Immediate Help

Provide fast and efficient support (preferably 24 hours) once the request for an Open Dialogue meeting has been made. Attempt to arrange a meeting as soon as possible, since crises can often hold acute risks.

Social Network Perspective

Come together with the individual's social network (notable people in their life, such as family member, friends, and service providers). The individual should be present at all meetings and be involved in all decisions made that affects them.

Flexibility and Mobility

Allow the individual and their support network to participate in deciding the meeting location, length, and scope of the discussion. The network meeting should cover several different needs and options. Only talk about what the network proposes, and do not insert your own agenda.

Responsibility of the Professionals

Instill organizational structure that allows for efficient and competent communication throughout the agency. Provide clarity and transparency about the process and procedures in place.

Psychological Continuity

At least one of the two professionals should remain working with the family throughout the crisis. The two professionals should collaborate and coordinate with each other, and feel comfortable working with each other.

Tolerance of Uncertainty

Withhold giving immediate solutions and set limits so your work remains ethically appropriate. Give the individual and their network the ability to make their own decisions and take ownership, allowing an increase of their sense of control. Make space for everyone to be heard.

Dialogism

The professionals should reflect to each other openly and seek the opinion and reflection of the network. Facilitate thoughts of hope and possibilities rather than limitations, and be aware of the preconceptions that are held within both the professionals and network.

Click here to learn more about open dialogue