...| Personal Theory of Counseling:Applying Cognitive Therapy to the Case of Donetta | | | Background The theory of cognitive therapy resonates with me because of my personal belief in the power of the mind. It is my opinion that without the process of changing mindset, behaviors will not change. The mind has control over every single action and tells your entire being how to respond in every single situation. As stated in the Corey (2009) text, I believe that people with emotional difficulties often times tend to “commit characteristic logical errors that tilt objective reality in the direction of self-deprecation” (p. 288). Through my own therapy experience I came to understand the connection between my thinking, my feelings and my actions. I learned to identify distorted thinking, engage in realistic thinking, and to employ problem-solving and coping skills. This method helped me through my own difficult times and therefore I know it works and would like to help others through its use. View of Human Nature People possess faulty beliefs and maladaptive information processing (automatic thoughts) which can lead to cognitive distortions and depression (Chadwick, 1994). In cognitive therapy clients learn to identify these distorted cognitions through evaluation. Corey states (2009) that once clients gain insight into how these unrealistically negative thoughts affect them, their feelings, and behaviors; they can begin to “use their automatic thoughts to...
Words: 1489 - Pages: 6
...Final Paper: Personal Theory of Counseling or Psychotherapy Student: Student ID # COUN 6722 Program: MS in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling Specialization: Trauma and Crisis Intervention Walden University May 18, 2012 The final paper for this course will demonstrate my ability to understand, integrate and apply theories of counseling and psychotherapy based on teachings from the course. My personal theory of counseling or psychotherapy will be presented by examining my basic view of human nature and the key factors I strongly believe account for changes in behavior. The nature of the therapist-client relationship and its relative importance will be explained as well as the key functions and role of the therapist. Key goals of therapy will be described and the particular techniques and procedures specific to my preferred therapeutic approach will be noted. Lastly, the populations and/or client issues best suited and least suited for the named approach will be discussed. View of Human Nature My basic view of human nature is similar to the ideals of Thomas Hobbes. He perceived humans as individuals who are driven by specific desires which motivate their behaviors. Exhibiting certain behaviors will satisfy the desires (Malcolm, 2002). Hobbes’ theory coincides with my own that humans have the ability to decide whether to alter their behaviors to ultimately fulfill their desires (trial and error) or to relinquish their original desires in exchange for more...
Words: 1626 - Pages: 7
...» Philosophy and Psychology Personal Theory of Counseling In: Philosophy and Psychology Personal Theory of Counseling ALTER THIS PAPER....IT HAS BEEN SUBMITTED TO TURN IT IN....USING IT VERBATIN WILL RESULT IN A 100 MARK AND IDENTIFICATION WITH ANOTHER STUDENT PAPER...IN OTHER WORDS, YOU WILL BE FOUND TO BE COMPLETELY CHEATING AND MAY BE EXPELLED FROM YOUR UNIVERSITY...I WOULD USE IT AS A GUIDE, A LAUNCHING POINT....SOMETHING YOU COULD PARAPHRASE OR BORROW SOME IDEAS... Personal Theory of Counseling or Psychotherapy Personal Theory of Counseling or Psychotherapy Personal Theory of Counseling of Counseling or Psychotherapy Introduction This application paper will discuss my personal theory of counseling or psychotherapy in a number of different areas. Specifically, I will discuss the seven areas of interest. First, I will discuss and describe my basic view of human nature, Second, I will determine key factors that account for changes in behavior. Third, I will describe the nature of the therapist client relationship and its importance. Fourth, I will describe key functions and role of the therapist. Fifth, I will discuss the goals of therapy. Sixth, I will determine the techniques and theories of my approach. Seventh, I will discuss specific client issues best suited for my approach. (Walden University, 2012). In this paper I plan to describe and explain my own personal model for counseling. My personal model of counseling uses Gestalt Therapy, Person Centered...
Words: 358 - Pages: 2
...to Help You in Choosing a Therapy Orientation What are some guidelines for constructing an integrative theory of counseling and psychotherapy? First, you should be able to have a working knowledge of the particular theories from which you will draw and a basic description of why each theory is important and relevant to you as a mental health counselor or therapist. It helps to write out your own integrated approach to counseling. You should demonstrate a balance between your knowledge of the particular theories from which you select and a genuine description of why each theory is important and relevant to you as a clinician or therapist. It is important that you examine in depth your reasons for choosing each theory. The following questions are designed to help you think about the core counseling theory that you are initially adopting YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF PSYCHOTHERAPY THEORIES 1. What are four basic concepts from the theory you are adopting as your core or base theory? 2. What constitutes a problem in your core counseling theory? 3. What are the goals of counseling for the theoretical approach you have chosen? 4. Who establishes the goals in counseling? 5. What is the nature of the relationship between you and the client? 6. What competencies must you have to carry out your role as therapist/counselor? 7. What are the responsibilities of clients during counseling? What is expected of clients? 8. What can the client expect from the therapist—from you? 9. What is...
Words: 707 - Pages: 3
...Counseling Theory Paper Cherish Stokely Liberty University Abstract This counseling theory paper combines different aspects of various counseling theories and puts them into one unified theory. This new theory takes in account my personal beliefs and worldview. This theory is not permanent, but is put together to allow direction for future counseling sessions. Although each client has a unique situation, this theory can be a basis on how a counselor would start the interaction between herself and the client. This paper outlines philosophical assumptions, which includes how man is inherently evil, but there is still hope for growth. The next section will then discuss the model of personality, which talks about how man develops. This section combines counseling theories such as Gestalt and behavior therapy. The next two sections discuss psychological health and abnormality. This section looks at how a client will be able to set himself free from symptoms that are harming the client. The next section will conclude by talking about psychotherapy and how a counselor should look at the role of the counselor and client while using certain techniques. This paper will conclude with a discussion of the assignment. Overall, this theory could be used in a Christian or secular setting and is based off of personal beliefs. Counseling Theory Paper Each counseling theory includes various strengths that can be used in a counseling session. Since a counselor should make known that each...
Words: 2831 - Pages: 12
...Biblical Counseling: Compare and Contrast Secular Counseling Theories 1 The definition of counseling in Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary says “professional guidance of the individual by utilizing psychological methods especially in collecting case history data, using various techniques of the personal interview, and testing interests and aptitudes” (counseling. (n.d.). Merriam-Webster. Retrieved November 24, 2013, from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/counseling ). Each person was brought into this world with brokenness, temptations and sin. We are all a work in progress and it takes daily reliance on Christ to overcome our challenges. However, we can trust that “being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Phil 1:6) When someone seeks out counseling it’s usually for help in dealing with pain, hurt, depression, or seeking counsel about situations in their life that need to be addressed. The intent of this paper is to compare and contrast the parallel between Dr. Larry Crabb’s biblical model of teaching in Christian counseling theories with scientific proven methods to counsel and treat individuals with these secular counseling models Cognitive- Behavior Therapy (CBT), Rogers’ Client-Centered Therapy (RCCT), and Ellis’s Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT). Goal of Christian Counseling When looking at the accepted counseling standards, theories, and...
Words: 1466 - Pages: 6
...Developing Personal Style of Counseling Abstract Counseling is a profession, a unique relationship in which the counselor’s job is to hold a ‘mirror’ for the client to see himself or herself. The counselor understands that sometimes it takes a while for the client to see what he or she needs especially if there are more subtle things needing recognition. The counselor knows how to hold the ‘mirror’ in such a way that the client can see himself or herself from a caring, supportive and sympathetic perspective. Sometimes counselors may appear to be repeating what the client says or paraphrasing the clients rather than giving answers. When counselors are doing this there is a strategy behind it. Counseling is not about expect fixing problematic people, they just motivate people to pick up the broken pieces in their behaviors that need attention. Because counselors have a lot of experience witnessing human beings in various forms of life challenges, they use techniques or share observations that are more revealing than what friends or family members might say. With these revelations, clients make decisions and with the support of the counselor, clients take action towards positive growth in their lives. This paper is an expression of my current thinking regarding a theoretical approach of individual counseling. The counselor’s approach is unique based on his or her personal belief systems and values. I have adopted and integrated counseling approach to understanding...
Words: 4419 - Pages: 18
...I believe that the ultimate goal of counseling is to help people be healthy, functioning members of society who are able to effectively cope with life experiences, both good and bad. I believe that this goal can be achieved through the process of education. Counselors should be prepared to provide resources to clients that include, but are not limited to, coping strategies, life skills, and the ability to identify and understand feelings. This also involves providing alternative ways of thinking or behaving that might help the client better function in their daily lives. Counseling also involves a genuine, empathic relationship. This is necessary in order to fully understand the perspective and lifestyle of the client. Understanding their view point and frame of reference helps both the client and the counselor to understand the cognitions and belief system that has made the client who they are. Once the client and counselor have engaged in this process of reflection and interpretation, I believe the client should become actively involved in therapy by understanding and taking control of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This process can be empowering, but also challenging, so the counselor should be very encouraging throughout the counseling experience. Finally, I also believe counseling should involve concrete goals. Counseling is most effective when the clients have chosen these goals themselves, or the counselor and client have decided upon together. After...
Words: 297 - Pages: 2
...Type Indicator test, developed to make C.G. Jung’s personality type theory understandable and applicable to person’s everyday life. The MBTI is a psychometric instrument designed to sort people into groups of personality types. Jungian theory posits that there are different functions and attitudes of consciousness. Perception is the means by which one becomes aware of people, things, events, and concepts; judgment is the means of coming to conclusions about how to handle the information thus gathered (C.J. Jung’s Theory of Types, 2012). Applications have been made across a broad spectrum of human experience, including in areas such as counseling and psychotherapy; education, learning styles, and cognitive styles; career counseling; management and leadership in business organizations and the military services; and health-related issues. A. The MBTI has a unique and interesting history. Unlike most personality inventories, it was initially designed to facilitate research interests, and only later adapted for general use. 1. “The MBTI is a self-report questionnaire that assesses type preferences on Extraversion-Introversion (E-I), Sensation-Intuition (S-N), Thinking-Feeling (T-F), and also on Judgment-Perception (J-P)” (C.J. Jung’s Theory of Types, 2012). 2. “MBTI types are described using four letters indicating preferences on each scale. This results in sixteen types” (C.J. Jung’s Theory of Types, 2012). B. With administration to more than two million...
Words: 1430 - Pages: 6
...Personal Model of Helping Andra Bachan BSHS 312 July3, 2011 Lonnie McCullough Personal Model of Helping This paper will discuss my personal model of helping that I have developed so far in my educational career so far. This paper will cover how and why I have formed this viewpoint, my view of helping, the relationship between the client and participant, techniques or approaches to change, the kinds of problems that can be addressed with my model, and multicultural issues. The limitations and strengths of the model and there populations this model can help will also be addressed in this paper. The personal model of helping that I have developed involves various theories. My model of helping involves the Adlerian theory, existential theory, person-centered theory, gestalt theory, reality therapy, cognitive behavior theory, Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, and rational-emotive theory. Adlerian theory includes the importance of birth order, takes into consideration the individual’s life style, their social interest, and their personality as it pertains to inferiority and superiority. The goal of the Adlerian theory is to increase social interest, change negative behaviors that are self-destructive, and help increase problem solving skills. In therapy sessions the family dynamics are observed. Often times the family unit assigns the roles the individual plays within the family based on birth order. The eldest child may have most of the responsibility placed on them because...
Words: 2311 - Pages: 10
...2013 Dr. Edward Garrido Emerging Issues Multicultural Psychology The United States combines numerous cultures that are integrated and merged together. In theory this world seems to be a picture of harmony and unity, the reality of society is much more complex and challenging. With more immigrants from various cultures and backgrounds, the need for multicultural counseling increases. With this increase come two distinct issues for multicultural counseling: the counselor’s own personal culture, including his or her theoretical outlook, and the assortment of components forming the identity of the individual the counselor is advising. Counselor’s Culture In multicultural psychology it is essential to know of the client’s culture to be a culturally competent psychologist. However, many may overlook such that, competent psychologist need to be aware of his or her own personal culture and theoretical view. It is crucial to recognize and comprehend one’s culture and beliefs before commencing to understand and aid others, (Ibrahiam, 1985). Attentiveness to personal beliefs, acknowledgement of various frameworks of thinking and logic, and understanding of the influence these factors can have on one’s style of assistance and communication are needed to be culturally competent (Ibrahim, 1985). A deficiency in these areas may...
Words: 602 - Pages: 3
...Personal Philosophy Paper Sara Hammel University of Georgia Counseling Theory Theorist who have Influenced Personal Theoretical Orientation As a therapist’s experience base grows, I believe a person’s theoretical orientation will narrow, but will also continue to evolve. The core belief system that a therapist begins with is still there, but the platform that a therapist connects most with eventually becomes a therapist’s model. I am aware that my current orientation is rather eclectic in nature. I find a basic connection with Freud and agree that we do have instincts that are innate to every human (Corey, 2013), in essence we are all animals (Freud, 1961) of sorts. Adler was correct when he expounded on Freud’s work and introduced the idea that we are not solely shaped by our childhood experiences. Frankl, May, and Yalom have led me to the idea that there is no step by step instructional book on how to counsel clients. My experience in the military working with a multitude of different people of various religions, ethnicities, and languages has led to my acknowledgement that we are all different and are motivated and driven by many different things. Each person is different; this is what makes us special. No single solution is perfect for any two people, and there are always different variables involved with each person. Also incorporated into my view of human nature is Perls’s concept that places emphasis on what is being experienced in the here and now as being...
Words: 4026 - Pages: 17
...A Study Comparison of Biblical Counseling with Secular Counseling Theories Demetrius E. Hurt Liberty University CCOU 201 A Study Comparison of Biblical Counseling with Secular Counseling Theories In the world today issues surrounding mental illness are in the forefront of our healthcare systems, legal systems, social circles and yes, even in our churches. Though each of the aforementioned systems takes a different approach on how to tackle the problem of mental illness, one thing is for sure-the need for more qualified counselors is on the rise. Luckily, the counseling profession has grown and employs theories from the secular world as well as the religious world. Though the strategies and treatment goals may be different, both groups of counseling professionals work diligently to support those suffering from mental illness and bring them into a sense of well-being. To that end, the author of this paper will examine the theories and ideologies of both groups of counseling professionals, examine therapeutic remedies that are alike between the two and how they differ in the way they interact with clients and mental illness. The Goal of Christian Counseling The goal of any counseling professional is to assist the client with identifying skills and tools that will help them to achieve mental well-being. Each counselor no doubt uses a multifaceted approach with a wide menu of therapeutic options to achieve this goal. However, the Christian Counselor not only seeks...
Words: 2449 - Pages: 10
...Theory Paper Holistic, CBT and Spritual Theory Approach Introduction Client’s are expecting that counselors will treat their spiritual concers, as a result many mental health professionals are now considering the healing potential of a holistic view of mind, body, and spirit when it is incorporated into the therapeutic process (Morrison, Clutter, Pritchett & Demmitt, 2009). Learning a clients spiritual history, faith preferences, and commitments is a critical assessment priority (Greggo & Lawrence, 2012). As a counselor I find it very important to focus on the clients behaviors, thoughts and spiritual needs. I would address the clients thoughts and behaviors by using pieces of Adlerian therapy while using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help the client learn new behaviors. I also find it important to address the clients spiriautal needs and how beliefs play a role in their treatment. When working in a secultar setting, I believe it is hard for counselors to know the best way to incorporate a clients spiritual delimas and needs while working in a therapeutic environment. I personally value and prefer this particular cognitive-behavioral orientation because I believe that it helps the client focus on the therapy as a learning process. The client learns new ways to cope with problems more effectively. Cognitive-behavioral theory stresses the role of thinking, deciding, questioning, doing, and re-deciding (put in own words) I chose CBT because it is the...
Words: 3693 - Pages: 15
...justification of a skills that is most relevant to the role. Lastly, I will explain the supervisor’s role and skill set as noted in the discrimination model of supervision. Applying and Explaining Supervisory Roles This is where you introduce the ideas of effective characteristics and behaviors. Be sure to support your points with the learning resources. Using multiple resources will support your points further. Supervisors of mental health professionals train, mentor, teach, encourage and challenge counselors who are new to the field (Young & Bashman, 2010). They are individuals that have been counseling for a while, who take time out to guide and assist people that are new to field (Young & Bashman, 2010). There are many roles and responsibility that a supervisor has and a number of theories that they may incorporate into their personal doctrine. The discrimination model is a theory that includes three skills (intervention, conceptualization and personalization) and roles (teacher, counselor, and consultant) that one uses as a supervisor. Michael is mental health internship student that has been working with the clinical director for 2 months. Michael has been having some difficulty with his level of confidence in his ability to effectively counsel, guide and aid his present client. He is also struggling with his comfort level with some of the things that his client has said and with his...
Words: 804 - Pages: 4
