Navigating the Journey: Exploring the Four Stages of Learning
In our pursuit of mastery, whether it be a new skill, a fresh language, or a complex subject matter, we embark on a journey of learning. This expedition is marked by distinct phases, each offering its own challenges, insights, and triumphs. Understanding these stages not only helps us navigate the learning process more effectively but also fosters resilience and perseverance along the way. Let's delve into the four stages of learning, through the lens of EMDR, and uncover the secrets they hold.
1. Unconscious Incompetence
At the outset of our journey, we find ourselves in a state of blissful ignorance. We are unaware of what we don't know. This stage is characterized by a lack of understanding or recognition of our incompetence in a particular skill or field. It's akin to driving in the dark without knowing the destination; we're unaware of the road ahead. At this point in your journey, you may not even be aware that a clinical intervention as powerful as EMDR even exists.
Key Characteristics:
- Ignorance of skills or knowledge gaps.
- Little to no awareness of the learning process.
- Potential overestimation of one's abilities if you believe you know how to do something and are not aware of the complexities involved.
Example: Imagine a therapist who has never been trained in EMDR. They may not realize the complexity of the intervention, or the complexities involved, especially with clinical considerations of why the client is in therapy. Maybe they watch a YouTube video or take a non-EMDRIA approved training and feel “all there is to it is waving my finger in front of the client”. The outcome could be detrimental to the client because of underestimating the training and skill required to practice EMDR in a safe way.
2. Conscious Incompetence
As we venture further, enlightenment begins to dawn. In this stage, we become acutely aware of our lack of proficiency in an area that we wish to grow and are curious about. We recognize the vast chasm between where we currently stand and where we aspire to be on a particular subject. While this realization may be humbling, it also serves as a catalyst for growth. It's the acknowledgment of our “being a beginner” that propels us forward. This is the stage where we realize that if we want to learn EMDR and add it to our clinical practice that we decide to commit to the learning through training, practice, and consultation,
Key Characteristics:
- Awareness of skills or knowledge gaps.
- Recognition of the learning process.
- Willingness to confront challenges and seek improvement.
Example: Continuing with the learning EMDR analogy, the clinician is learning the basic technique and theory. An astute novice clinician might realize just how much they have yet to grasp – the intricate phases, the nuances of each clinical situation, and the importance of continued consultation.
3. Conscious Competence
With diligent practice and perseverance, we ascend to the next stage – conscious competence. Here, our efforts begin to materialize as we gain proficiency in our chosen domain, which in this example is EMDR Therapy. We have been basic trained and completed the required 10 hours of basic training consultation. Mastery, however, remains a deliberate and mindful endeavor. We must concentrate on each step, each move, each concept, as we navigate the terrain of learning. We may still be looking at our Standard Protocol scripts, feeling a bit awkward in session when moving to the processing phases of EMDR and understand the importance of continued consultation. We may also begin considering EMDR Certification.
Key Characteristics:
- Competence achieved through conscious effort and practice.
- Ability to perform technique or apply knowledge with concentration.
- Continued need for focus and attention to maintain proficiency.
Example: After learning the basic technique and theory, a novice clinician might realize just how much they have yet to grasp – the intricate phases, the nuances of each clinical situation, and the importance of continued consultation. The therapist may have moments where the learning feels awkward and avoid using their new skill. The therapist may doubt their capacity during the growth journey. The clinician can begin to anticipate how a client may respond in processing phases and align treatment accordingly, albeit with conscious effort.
4. Unconscious Competence
Finally, we arrive at the pinnacle of proficiency – unconscious competence. In this stage, mastery of EMDR becomes second nature. Skills and knowledge are ingrained deeply within us, requiring minimal conscious effort to execute. Like muscle memory, our actions flow effortlessly and instinctively. We implement EMDR with fluency and grace, often without even realizing the extent of our expertise.
Key Characteristics:
- Mastery achieved to the point of automaticity and fluency
- Implementation becomes instinctive and effortless.
- Intuitive understanding of concepts, skills, protocols, and clinical presentations.
Example: At this point the therapist has a keen grasp of how powerful and adaptable EMDR is and understands the need for continued training in areas like developmental trauma, dissociation, early trauma intervention, etc. The clinician is profoundly aware of various ways to implement EMDR and is skilled at knowing when to apply EMDR techniques in complex clinical situations.
The journey of learning is a transformative odyssey, marked by these four distinct stages. From ignorance to mastery, each phase presents its own challenges and rewards. No matter where you are on your EMDR learning journey, embracing this process with patience, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to growth is key to unlocking your full clinical potential as a trauma therapist. Remember: every stumble is a step forward, and every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Embark on your journey with courage and a sense of curiosity. May your journey bring new aspects to your clinical work that you were not even aware existed, yet they surprise and delight you.
