Existential Therapy Behavioral Therapy And Reality Therapy

Psychology is the study of the mind which covers a wide range of characteristics like behaviors, emotions, and perceptions from the conscious to the unconscious. There is an abundance of theories and therapeutic procedures for therapists to incorporate into their practice. Every client is different and it is important for the therapist to recognize which therapeutic approach is best suited for the individual. Existential therapy, behavioral therapy, and reality therapy are three different approaches that can be integrated into one’s practice and counseling model.

Existential therapy is considered a way of thinking and can be best described as a philosophical approach which influences a therapists overall practice (Corey, 2013, p.

155). The role of the therapist is to help clients take responsibility for their actions and behaviors and to discontinue putting the blame on others. They help individuals who have limited awareness and lead a restrictive existence, assume responsibility for their role in the world (Corey, 2013, p. 155). There are three phases to this therapeutic approach. Phase one is clarifying their assumptions about the world by examining their morals, values, and beliefs. During phase two clients are encouraged to engage in self-exploration that could lead to new attitudes and values. The final phase focuses on helping the client with the information they have learned about themselves and put them into action (Corey, 2013, p. 158). The existential the client initiates the conversation there is no reason not to explore that path. Behavior therapy is used to treat a wide variety of disorders such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, and sexual issues and disorders (Corey, 2013, p. 247). This approach aims at helping clients overcome debilitation behaviors that restrict their choices and are therefore free to choose from new possibilities that

336). Choice theory proposes that we are not born with a “blank slate” rather with five genetic codes that drive us, survival, love and belonging, freedom, power, and fun (Corey, 2013, p. 336). Our brain is the command center which monitors our feelings to see if our needs are being met (Corey, 2013, p. 336). Our total behavior which consists of thinking, acting, feeling, and physiology is our attempt to get what we want. It implies that our behaviors are purposeful and come from within therefore choosing our destiny (Corey, 2013, p. 337). Reality therapy can work well in a variety of settings such as schools, correction facilities, and substance abuse centers (Corey, 2013, p.336). A few characteristics of this type of therapy are to avoid focusing on symptoms, keep therapy in the present, and assist the clients in recognizing “the only person who you can control is yourself” (Corey, 2013, p.