An overview of resistance is presented as conceptualized by various approaches (e.g., behavioral, psychonanalytic, family systems). Principles of and techniques for working with involuntary and resistant clients then are set forth, with a focus on working in institutional settings. Inhibitors and facilitators of communication are delineated, and special issues in beginning sessions are identified, including empathy development, client denial, and premature termination. The importance of providing structure, maximizing choice, ignoring resistance, and timing in working with these clients is highlighted. A typology of resistant clients (the defender, attacker, and fogger) is provided together with techniques for dealing with them. Special considerations in treatment of aggressive, antisocial, and substance abusing clients also are discussed. 86 references.