I think during this session my understanding of the IRM model was influenced by realizing that I can respond to a critical incident either verbally or silently through body language and not interpreting an event at personal.  I have to also keep in mind that how the client interpreted the event may be different or the similar to my own. Taking into account how a critical incident can occur, it is important to address critical events instead of doing what may seem as the easier option or more comfortable option. Through dealing with a critical incident, it allows for a therapist to better respond to future situations and also allows for the client to be able to express and communicate their needs better because an event was addressed or attended to.

     I think the critical incident that I identified with the client sharing her story and photo album of having gone through cancer treatments allowed me to listen to the client closely and communicate with her both verbally and non-verbally to show that I was being empathetic. She responded positively to my response and continued to share her story with me. There was not a lot of shifting I had to do at that moment other than listen to what she had to say and show that I was listening and attentive. There was no cascade of moving through different events since in that moment I did not have to problem solve or instruct with the client at that particular time. If I was placed back in that situation though, I would use collaborating to help the client further establish a rapport with me. I would use this as a strategy to help the client talk about how she can move forward in her recovery and to talk to her about how she has coped with her surgeries so far and what will she continue to do that would be helpful in her recovery. I think this would be the most effective mode to use to empower the client and encourage her to continue to do all the positive things that have helped her to cope so far and that have given her strength.