Theories
Theories
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Theories
Individual Counseling Theory Techniques
Lamar University
Theories
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Theories
Adlerian, Cognitive Behavioral and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy are three major theories that are used extensively in the counseling world. Some counselors use each as a single treatment approach while others chose to blend things from two or more together. The theory or approach that is chosen by a counselor must be one that they are knowledgeable in and feel comfortable with. It’s also important to remember that not every approach will fit every client.
Adlerian Theory
Key Concepts
Adlerian Theory sometimes referred to as Individual Psychology was developed by Alfred Adler. Adler stressed a positive view of human nature. He believed that everyone can control their fate through analyzing their lifestyle and helping others. One of the key concepts of Adlerian Therapy is that “objective reality is less important than how we interpret reality and the meanings we attach to what we experience.” (Quinn,
2011) Adlerian Theory suggests that behavior is purposeful and goal-oriented and that the “life goal” unifies the personality. (Quinn, 2011) Genetics and heredity are not as important as what we chose to do with the limitations and abilities that we possess.
(Quinn, 2011) Adler offered a “value-oriented psychology that envisioned human beings as capable of profound cooperation in living together and striving for selfimprovement, self-fulfillment, and contribution to the common welfare.” (Stein &
Edwards, n.d.) Adler felt that if humans did not learn to cooperate and work things out, that we would eventually “annihilate each other.” (Stein & Edwards, n.d.) Adler felt that when we feel encouraged, we feel capable and appreciated and will generally act in a
Theories
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cooperative way. The flip side of this is when we get discouraged. If we are discouraged we may act in unhealthy ways by competing, withdrawing, or giving up.
1
Theories
Individual Counseling Theory Techniques
Lamar University
Theories
2
Theories
Adlerian, Cognitive Behavioral and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy are three major theories that are used extensively in the counseling world. Some counselors use each as a single treatment approach while others chose to blend things from two or more together. The theory or approach that is chosen by a counselor must be one that they are knowledgeable in and feel comfortable with. It’s also important to remember that not every approach will fit every client.
Adlerian Theory
Key Concepts
Adlerian Theory sometimes referred to as Individual Psychology was developed by Alfred Adler. Adler stressed a positive view of human nature. He believed that everyone can control their fate through analyzing their lifestyle and helping others. One of the key concepts of Adlerian Therapy is that “objective reality is less important than how we interpret reality and the meanings we attach to what we experience.” (Quinn,
2011) Adlerian Theory suggests that behavior is purposeful and goal-oriented and that the “life goal” unifies the personality. (Quinn, 2011) Genetics and heredity are not as important as what we chose to do with the limitations and abilities that we possess.
(Quinn, 2011) Adler offered a “value-oriented psychology that envisioned human beings as capable of profound cooperation in living together and striving for selfimprovement, self-fulfillment, and contribution to the common welfare.” (Stein &
Edwards, n.d.) Adler felt that if humans did not learn to cooperate and work things out, that we would eventually “annihilate each other.” (Stein & Edwards, n.d.) Adler felt that when we feel encouraged, we feel capable and appreciated and will generally act in a
Theories
3
cooperative way. The flip side of this is when we get discouraged. If we are discouraged we may act in unhealthy ways by competing, withdrawing, or giving up.
References: Adlerian Analysis and Framework. (2013). Adlerian Analysis and Framework. Retrieved from http://www.theravive.com/research/Adlerian-Analysis-and-Framework Alfred Adler: Theory and Application. (2012). Practical Psychology, Inspiring Change. Center. Retrieved December 19, 2013, from http://www.beckinstitute.org/ Berg, I Benefits. WebMD. Retrieved December 19, 2013, from http://www.webmd.com/depression/features/cognitive-therapy Multimodal Therapy. (2013). Http://www.apa.org. Retrieved from http://www.apa.org/pubs/videos/4310817.aspx NAMI - The National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2012, July). NAMI. Retrieved from http://www.nami.org/Template.cfm?Section=About_Treatments_and_Supports Pedro. (2013). Basic Assumptions of Solution Focused Therapy [Web log post]. Staff, M. C. (2013, February 21). Definition. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cognitive-behavioraltherapy/MY00194/DSECTION%3Dwhy-its-done What is Cognitive Therapy? (n.d.). - Academy of Cognitive Therapy. Retrieved December 19, 2013, from