Contrary to a common perception, the 10 here does not stand for an unreachable ideal, but rather for a reasonably acceptable goal, which may vary according to the person’s needs and aspirations.

The foundations of the scaling technique

The technique consists in inviting the patient to give a rating to a representation, a situation or a relationship on a numerical scale, usually from 0 to 10:

• 0 indicates total absence (for instance: “I have no self-confidence at all”).
• 10 reflects a realistic state of autonomy or satisfaction, without aiming for perfection.

This process leads the patient to think concretely about how they currently feel and about the steps needed to move towards lasting change.

How is this method used in sessions?

The scaling technique is particularly useful for three purposes.

A visual, proactive tool

One of the strengths of this technique lies in its ability to turn a simple rating into a dynamic mental image. A patient who places themselves at 4 out of 10 for self-confidence can be invited to visualise what a reasonable 5 would look like:

• What behaviours or changes would embody that level?
• What concrete steps could lead there?

This projection work activates the change process, because it encourages the patient to think about the steps along the way rather than about an abstract or idealised end goal.

Strengths… and limits to keep in mind

The scaling technique has many assets:

• Simplicity and accessibility: suited to patients of all ages, it is easy to understand and to implement.
• Motivation: visualising quantified progress helps strengthen confidence and engagement in the therapeutic process.
• Adaptability: it can be applied to a wide variety of topics, such as self-confidence, family relationships or emotion management.

The method is not without limits, however. Quantification can flatten the emotional complexity of deep feelings, and the ratings given remain subjective: they depend heavily on the emotional state of the moment and can fluctuate. This is why a nuanced interpretation and personalised support from the therapist are essential.

Thinking change in order to embody it

The scaling technique is a precious tool for facilitating communication and stimulating reflection on change. By leading patients to imagine accessible, concrete steps, it helps them visualise a more positive, attainable future.

As systemic psychotherapy emphasises, the point is not simply to measure, but to allow the patient to think about their change differently: to perceive themselves in a new way, to imagine gradual, realistic transformations, and to strengthen their sense of moving forward.

So, on a scale from 0 to 10, how would you rate your desire to try this technique in your practice or your personal life? The full explanation — in French — is in the video below.