Element 8 of 10
Parallel process as an organizing principle
The consultant’s way of being emanates from her conviction that the ways in which people are treated affect how they will feel about themselves and treat other people.
Key points
- The parallel process is reflected in this phrase “Do unto others as you would have others do unto others.”Note 4
- The consultant promotes the parallel process as they respect, value, and seek to understand the consultee. The consultee in turn becomes better able to respect, value, and empathize with the experiences of children and families.
Notes
- 4. Pawl, J. H. & St. John, M. (1998). How you are is as important as what you do… in making a positive difference for infants, toddlers, and their families. Washington DC: Zero to Three/National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families.
Source: Element text is reproduced from 10 Elements Comprise the Essential Core of an Effective Consultative Stance, Center of Excellence for Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (2025).