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Basic Themes of Humanistic Therapies

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Submitted By rstarr74
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Rachel Starr McClain
Amina Sheikh-Wali
Courtney Pray
Group 2 Essay (2) describe the basic themes of humanistic therapies.

Humanistic therapies are based on self-fixing-self and addresses the whole being. That through self-actualization and realization of why a behavior is occurring, steps can then be taken to correct the problem or issue. It focuses on the optimistic views that people are basically good and have the ability to overcome.
In 1943 Abraham Maslow brought to the table hierarchical theory of human motivation that is beautifully illustrated in a pyramid. The base of this pyramid is the basic needs of physical survival; Food, water, air, shelter, sleep, warmth, sex. The second tier relates to safety and security. Having continuity and stability allows for freedom from fears and allows for an individual to move on the next tier; belonging. Belonging gives us a sense of security as well, and helps an individual to feel not alone. We need to feel love and acceptance in a non-sexual way, this helps feed our self-esteem; our self-worth. This brings us to the third tier; self-esteem needs. This is broken into two divisions; one is to feel like we are good at something, a master at a task. The other is to be recognized by our peers that is addressed by our external visage to others, the status symbols of clothing, cars, trophies, etc… And finally at the top of the pyramid we have the pinnacle of self-actualization. Self-actualization is the need to realize one’s potential, feeling at one with our God, being at peace with who we are, and becoming all that we are capable of being.

In 1946 Carl Rogers published an article on the aspects of client-centered therapy that explains that in order for change to occur, there must be necessary elements in place; self-responsibility, a strong drive to become well adjusted, the clients ability to be comfortable

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