In this lesson, you’re introduced to the Matrix diagram. You’ll learn about the two axes (inner experiencing versus the outside world and avoidance versus approach) and be introduced to the “Me” noticing perspective. You’ll also learn to map your painful experiences in the Matrix diagram, bringing awareness to painful thoughts and feelings, the actions you typically take to move away from them, and the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of those solutions, including how you learned to try and problem-solve pain away.

After this lesson, you should be able to:

• Explain what the Matrix diagram is.
• Identify its different components.
• Summarize how to use the Matrix in life.

Handouts you’ll need

• The matrix diagram
• Matrix diagram worksheet
• John’s problem-solving approach to pain