Counseling Theories---- Introduction and Overview

Introduction and overview No single model can explain all the facets of human experience Three big counseling theories (Psychodynamic, Humanistic, and Cognitive-Behavioral theories) will be discussed You can begin to acquire a counseling style tailored to their own personality The process will take years Different theories are not “right” or “wrong”

Introduction and overview Is it enough to just learn the helping skills? Who we are as a therapist, is critical We need to think critically and scientifically Is it enough to only be a good person with good intentions? A knowledge of counseling theory and techniques, theories of personality, and supervised experiences are necessary We need to use counseling theories to conceptualize cases and develop hypotheses and treatment plans.

Introduction and overview What is your role in the therapy process? the Therapist is not in business to change clients, to give them quick advice, or to solve their problems for them. YOU are your own very best technique. It is important for therapists to increase their own awareness and applying this material to yourself personally.

Introduction and overview What are your attitudes in learning theories of psychotherapy and counseling? Relate readings to your own experiences Reflect on your own needs, motivations, values, and life experiences Apply key concepts and techniques to your own personal growth Develop a personalized style of counseling that reflects your personality

The criteria of theories of psychotherapy Precision and Clarity Should use operational definitions, which can be used to measure a variable (e.g., irrational beliefs, transference) Comprehensiveness Are comprehensive across gender, age, or cultures. Testability Must be tested and confirmed Usefulness Should be helpful to practitioners to understand clients and techniques to help them function better CBT is easier to operate (e.g., irrational beliefs), define, and implement to research. However, some constructs are difficult to translate to research (e.g, transference). So, it is easier to conduct research in CBT approach for empirically supported treatment. Source: Sharf, S. (2004). Theories of Psychotherapy and Counseling: Concepts and Cases (3rd edition). Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole.

Theoretical Orientations of American psychotherapists What do you observe in this Table? Which approach is the most popular among mental health professional?