As I progress through my programs in Christian and Marriage and Family Counseling, I have started to notice a pattern of thoughts beginning to form in terms of the theories that I am drawn to. Although, I am in the development stage of my theoretical orientation, at this point I am leaving towards Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotional Behavior Theory (EBT) the theory of Self-Actualization, and the Gottman theory. I imagine as I continue to develop as a Marriage and Family counselor, additional theories may be added or replaced.
I am intensely drawn to the how an individual’s preconceived thought about the events and or situations will ultimately affect his or her emotional response. …show more content…
The goal is to not get stuck in a pattern of irrational thought. To be able to recognize when one may be entering that abyss of a negative thought pattern is the first step in redirecting that thought. The primary goals of REBT are to (1) facilitate a change in irrational thoughts and behavior (2) Create an inviting productive rational thought (3) Eliminate irrational thoughts, (4) Disputing the negative thoughts of the client (5) Provide insight into the causes of an irrational thought, and (6) Acceptance. Personally, I do not believe complete elimination of negative thoughts can be accomplished. However, emotionally healthy individuals develop and acceptance of their reality. Even during turmoil, and disappoints acceptance and the reaction to the situation can help facilitate a healthy coping …show more content…
However, the time will come when God will shake things up a little to get a person to acknowledge him. I do not believe a person can have sustainable happiness throughout life without the presence of God. From a future therapist perspective, I can see incorporating Ellis’s REBT theory and God for a truly effective counseling session. Years ago, I read a book by Dr. William Dyer, titled You Will See it, When You Believe It. The basic theme is that until a person changes their thought process from negative to positive, and adheres to a faith, then and only then will they be able to rechannel their irrational thoughts. The book title is simply another way of giving definition to faith. Things that are hoped for but