This paper discusses realitytherapy and explains that this therapy focuses on the unsatisfying relationship or the lack of a relationship, which is often the cause of clients' problems.
Abstract This paper presents an overview of realitytherapy and explains that reality therapists deal with people as if they have choices. In particular, the paper discusses the primary goal of realitytherapy, why it can be considered as a mentoring process, and what approach the reality therapist takes with her client. In addition, the paper explains what realitytherapy emphasizes, e.g., an understanding and supportive relationship, and what qualities a reality therapist must possess in order to be effective. Lastly, the paper discusses two major components of realitytherapy, key procedures in the practice of realitytherapy, and limitations associated with this type of therapy. The paper concludes with the writer's thoughts about how she could apply the realitytherapy approach to her own life.
From the Paper "Clients are not expected to backtrack into the past or get sidetracked into talking about symptoms. Neither will much time be spent talking about feelings separate from the acting and thinking that are part of the total behaviors over which clients have direct control. Clients will most likely find therapists to be gently, but firmly confronting. Reality therapists will often ask clients questions such as, "Is what you are choosing to do bringing you closer to the people you want to be closer to right now?" Lastly clients can also expect to experience some urgency in therapy."
Abstract This paper introduces an approach to counseling, developed in the 1960s by Dr. William Glasser, called "RealityTherapy". The paper presents a basic explanation of RealityTherapy, includes a history of RealityTherapy, discusses current research in RealityTherapy, and takes a look at its relevance to today's society.
Outline
Introduction
Definition of RealityTherapy, What Is It?
The History of RealityTherapy Current Research on RealityTherapy What is the Relevance of RealityTherapy Today for Individuals and the General Population?
From the Paper "It was during the 1960's that Dr. William Glasser developed the new approach to counseling called 'Reality Therapy'. According to this therapy, the various choices that an individual makes are based on the present life that he is leading, and it doesn't matter what the person has undergone in his past, or what has happened to him in his past life. All the choices are based on the situation that he is in at the present time, and his reactions and his behavior are based on the 'here' and the 'now' of the particular situation. The theory also states that the existence of an unsatisfactory relationship or the non-existence of a relationship with others is the primary cause for psychological problems among individuals."
Abstract This paper discusses the theories behind cognitive-behavior and realitytherapies. It begins by discussing the combination of behavior therapy and cognitive therapy termed cognitive-behavior therapy. It also discusses the background of the philosophy behind realitytherapy. The paper then goes on to discuss the practice of the two approaches in a therapy environment.
Table of Contents:
Cognitive-Behavior Therapy RealityTherapy
From the Paper "Reality Therapy was founded by Dr William Glasser in the United States in the 1960s, who set up the Institute of Guidance Counselors in Ireland, in 1985. Glasser believed that changing how we behave is the key to changing how we feel and to getting what we want. Based on a broad range of theories and therapies, Glasser said that Reality Theory was based on "Choice Theory," that is, based on internal motivation to try and fulfill the wants and needs outlined by other theories, but behavior is "total" and made up of the interlocking components of acting, thinking, feelings and the physiology, (acting and thinking being voluntary). The wants and needs of other theories are outlined as Power (which includes achievement and feeling worthwhile, as well as winning), Love and Belonging (which includes groups, families or loved ones), Freedom (which includes independence, autonomy, and having one's own "space"), Fun (which includes pleasure and enjoyment) and Survival (which includes nourishment, shelter and sex). (Glasser, n.d.)"
Abstract This paper discusses how the goal of existential therapy is to help the client to enhance their own knowledge of self and to guide their own development. The paper then compares existential therapy to realitytherapy and explains that the later focuses on teaching clients how to make more effective choices in their lives and how to re-direct or direct the patterns in their lives. The paper also examines how both therapies have a few similarities, which can be seen in how both methods of therapy emphasize a trusting and open relationship between the client and therapist. Additionally, the paper examines how both therapies view the individual as ultimately responsible for his or her choices, as well as being capable of directing his or her own life.
From the Paper "William Glasser developed reality therapy in the 1960s as a method of teaching individuals how to control the outcome of their lives. Its focus is on teaching clients how to make more effective choices in their lives and how re-direct or direct the patterns in their lives. It also teaches coping mechanisms for dealing with the stress and problems that do occur in every day life. The basic premise of Reality Therapy is that although we cannot change what has happened in our past, we do still posses free will, and with that free will comes the ability to choose how we act in the future and how we respond to the issues that we run into in our lives. Reality Therapy dictates that the therapeutic relationship must be a trusting one that creates an environment where a client can learn to discover what they truly want in life, reflect on how they have been attempting to meet their goals in the past and in the present, and finally, to develop a plan for how they will more effectively seek out their goals in the future. "
Abstract This paper examines the concept and ideology of RealityTherapy in comparison to conventional therapy. The paper explains how Glasser challenged many of the widely accepted notions of psychiatry such as mental illness and the role of therapists and how his approach to therapy has proven successful in both private and institutional settings. It also outlines the main philosophy, focus, and key principles of Reality Theory.
From the Paper "Reality therapy concentrates on the client's needs and getting them to confront the reality of the world. In Reality Therapy, these needs are classified into power, love and belonging, freedom, fun, and survival. Survival includes the things that we need in order to stay alive, such as food, clothing and shelter. Power is our sense of achievement and feeling worthwhile, as well as the competitive desire to win. Love and belonging represent our social needs, to be accepted by groups, families and loved ones. Freedom is our need for our own space, a sense of independence and autonomy. Fun is our need to enjoy ourselves and seek pleasure. We seek to fulfill these needs at all times, whether we are conscious of it or not."
This paper reviews "RealityTherapy; A New Approach to Psychiatry"(1965) written by Dr. William Glasser, a leading expert in the field of mental health, who believes in a direct, straightforward therapeutic approach.
Abstract This paper explains that "RealityTherapy; A New Approach to Psychiatry" by Dr. William Glasser is almost a step by step blueprint, to his unconventional theory, which contradicted many beliefs of Sigmund Freud. The author points out that Glasser underlines the idea that people who use behaviorist, cognitive behaviorist or another person-centered type of therapy method can easily adapt to his approach. This paper relates that Glasser's book is based on an individual's power to choose how he reacts to life, to people and to circumstances.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Review
Conclusion
From the Paper "One example that he used will touch the heart of every reader. The girl came from an environment that anyone would rebel in. Non caring parent, ghetto lifestyle and used by the various men she encountered with little thought to the fact that at the time she was just a small girl. This case study that he illustrates provides concrete evidence that reality therapy can work. She is taught to accept her past, move toward her future and concentrate on her life, her desires, her ability to make those goals happen."
Abstract According to the precepts of rational emotive behavior theory, all people possess an innate desire and ability for happiness, fulfillment productivity, and safety. This paper describes the theory upon which rational emotive realitytherapy is based, the roles of both the counselor and the client, the techniques employed in counseling, and the outcomes sought.
From the Paper "Irrational beliefs are an unfortunate inheritance from those who surround us during childhood, and become part of our individual persona through repetition, but that is not the sole source of those notions that defeat us. As we mature, we both absorb incorrect and self-defeating definitions and values of our culture, society, and significant others, and develop a number all by ourselves. This is particularly true in our concepts of happiness and fulfillment. Simple desires may become desperate needs, magnified into the unattainable by belief systems gone awry. We want to enjoy a seamlessly happy life, free of trauma and loss, but that is not realistic. If the unrealistic belief develops that we cannot bear the stress of trauma and loss, we may become terribly depressed and immobilized by that depression. "
Abstract This paper takes a look at Realitytherapy and client-centered therapy, comparing and contrasting the approach that each therapy takes to counseling. The paper discusses humanistic theories and self-actualization, as well as the theories of Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers. The paper also talks about the fundamental task of all therapists.
From the Paper "Humanistic theories and related therapies including client-centered or person-centered therapy regard people as unique, self-determined and worthy of respect and see human development as guided by a variety of human needs. Key humanistic theorists include Abraham Maslow and Carl Rogers, both of whom take a holistic view of human growth that attempts to account for all of the diverse aspects of human experience. Humanistic theories propose that individuals pursue self-actualization and the acquisition of unconditional positive regard..."
Tags:Reality Threay, William Glasser, Carl ROgers, client-centered therapy
Abstract This paper explores two different forms of therapy and their likely impact as counseling aids among a target population. This is done through utilizing a case study approach in which a subject that is representative from the target population receives counseling through these two forms of therapy. Through using the case study approach, it is demonstrated how the use of realitytherapy and solution-focuses therapy can potentially impact members of the target population when used in a counseling setting.
From the Paper "The problem of interest in this case study approach is that of neglect and abandonment. Adolescents tend to be driven to find a community in which they belong and they seek to identify themselves with that community."
An overview of cognitive behavior therapy, focusing on the roles of the therapist and patient and how it compares to other therapies used in psychology.
3,720 words (approx. 14.9 pages), 6 sources, 2006, $ 133.95
Abstract This paper discusses cognitive behavioral therapy and the elements of its practice. It also explores the therapist and patient roles of cognitive behavioral therapy, and how it relates to other therapies currently used in psychology. Adlerian therapy, person centered therapy, existential therapy, Gestalt therapy, realitytherapy, solution oriented brief therapy, multi-modal therapy, feminist therapy, and rational emotion behavior therapy are discussed and contrasted to traditional cognitive behavioral therapy. Through these comparisons a focus on the central characteristics of these therapies is evident, providing a framework for patients and professionals to determine which therapy would be most effective for the needs of particular patients.
Abstract The paper discusses the distinction between two perspectives on therapy, both relating to general matters of mental health, patient counseling and psychotherapy. The paper notes that the psychotherapy-based discipline of realitytherapy and person-based therapy are both involved in direct engagement between client and counselor in which the two work to probe the client's hidden issues. This paper explores the core philosophical and practical distinctions between these approaches.
From the Paper "The hope of this process is that by helping the individual to point directly to the factors in his or her development which have created the depression, trauma or emotional distress, that said individual might be empowered to reject previous assumptions of reality based on this context which have been damaging to the psyche and identity.
The core impetus which informed the development of the reality therapy school of thought would be expedience, which causes some degree of theoretical conflict in and of itself. Specifically, this is the case because one may be caused to question the persistence of resolutions or revelations achieved in so concise a manner as reality therapy appears to be. Indeed, one of the identifying characteristics of reality therapy is its basis in efficiency, with Glasser stressing this as an important aspect of the connection between therapy and lifestyle outcomes with some immediacy".
Abstract This paper explains that psycho-dynamic therapy has its roots in psychoanalytic theory; however, psycho-dynamic therapy differs from classical psychoanalysis. The author points out that psycho-dynamic therapy is shorter, need not include all analytic techniques, is not conducted by psycho-analytically trained analysts and the therapist is much more actively and openly responsive to the client. The paper relates that contemporary object relations theory distinguishes between psychoanalytic theories, which are drive theories that emphasize biological drives such as sexuality and aggression, and relational theories, which emphasize human relationships.
From the Paper "The approach of the therapeutic situation depends very much on the theoretical perspective of the analyst. The psychodynamic schools value still the contemporary importance of Freud's original concepts, including the unconscious, id, ego, transference, resistance, free association, and Oedipus complex. Some theorists and analysts described as neo-Freudians retained many of the concepts described by Freud. Among these are the "ego psychology" school pioneered by Anna Freud. The "object relations" school emphasizes the importance of relationships between mother and child in early childhood, the school includes a number of theorists, such as Melanie Klein, Donald Winicott, and John Bowlby."
Abstract The paper outlines the history of rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT) and its key principles and ideas. The techniques and practices of this therapy are explains and its strengths and weaknesses are highlighted. The writer relates why this theory appeals to him and how he, as a therapist, would use this therapy.
Outline:
History of Theory
Theoretical Beliefs
Techniques and Practices
Strengths and Weaknesses
Choice
Use of Theory
From the Paper "Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy or REBT is an approach to therapy started by Albert Ellis. Albert Ellis, born in 1913, published his first book on REBT in 1957 entitled How To Live With a Neurotic. He began his career thinking that he would be a great American novelist and did actually write two manuscripts but was never able to get them published. He first graduated from the City University of New York in business administration. However, he was collecting data for a piece he was writing called "the Case for Sexual Liberty," and he discovered that he really liked the field of counseling as well. So, in 1942 he returned to school at Columbia in the clinical-psychology program and received his Master's in 1943 and a doctorate in 1947. After working and researching he decided that psychoanalysis was what he wanted to do so he found a therapist to work with him and train him."
Abstract Distinguishing between types of therapies is beneficial for those seeking to make change within social settings with specific or unique needs. Family centered therapies are one of the many different therapy strategies that can be applied to facilitate change. However while individual therapy tends to be defined as a relationship between two individuals with the purpose of achieving therapeutic change, the family systems therapy approach takes a more integrated process towards the close social units in which the individual seeking therapy resides. This paper identifies differences between the traditional individual therapy style of therapy and the family systems therapy approach.
Abstract This paper details the benefits of solution focused brief therapy (SFBT), which was introduced as an alternative method of treatment, which could be accomplished in a shorter period of time, as opposed to the more traditional forms of long-term therapy and psychoanalysis. The writer contends and explains why SFBT is significantly more efficient in terms of time, scope and cost when compared to long-term therapy. This paper delves into the literature and research published on this particular form of therapy. This paper cites the various techniques involved in successfully implementing SFBT. This paper discusses the advantages of SFBT and success rates attained in both family and couples therapy, while also citing various experts in the field who oppose this particular form of treatment.
From the Paper "Miracle questions are created to provide the therapist a 'preview' of how the patient views his/her future life. These questions engage patients by allowing them to contemplate about specific possibilities that may happen in their lives. Questions may be hypothetical situations that focus on the individual's action when confronted with mundane events followed after by thought-provoking inquiries by the therapist. This technique probes into the patient's capability to think about alternative solutions to specific life situations or problems, enabling the therapist to come up with a suggested resolution that is within the understanding of the patient. This also makes the patient feel that s/he had an active role in the solution-making process that took place during the therapy. Scaling is a more quantitative means by which problems are assessed by the therapist."
