INTEGRATIVE APPROACH COUNSELLING

Integrative Approach Counselling

Abstract

The idea behind the integrative approach is synthesis. Thus, the strengths and weaknesses of various theories are considered, evaluated, and combined towards a more integrative theory. In the end, all means from various theories are exhausted entirely for the client's benefit. Integrative counseling, by definition, is the process of choosing ideas and approaches from differing systems, forming a logical synthesis of the positive features of each theory. More often than not, it is a clear manifestation of the therapists' world view and personality. In this paper, we try to focus on Integrative Counseling. The paper mainly focuses on the evaluation of strengths and weaknesses of the Integrative approach counseling. Finally, paper gives the overall summary of the Integrative counseling approach.

An Integrative Counselling Approach

Introduction

Integration is logical since it is apparent that no theory has all the answers in addressing psychopathology. This is especially true when one considers the diversity of the clients who seek therapy or counseling. Since there is no theory which can validly claim exclusive effectiveness, it is logical to adapt integrative techniques in undertaking counseling (Lazarus, 1996). This is agreed by the practitioners who consider themselves as being 'eclectic' in their approach to therapy, citing and borrowing from a wide range of therapeutic practices. In essence, this is composed of techniques which are useful from various perspectives and synthesizing and applying them into one's own practice.

However, one should also be cautious of being 'syncretic', an individual who does not have a particular logic in selecting ideas from various perspectives and doing it without theoretical or even practical background. The outcome may not only be ineffective but may even be damaging to the client in the end. There are also various means in order to attain such an eclectic approach in counseling. One may opt to combine techniques or theories from various schools of thought in counseling. Again, this is anchored on the principle that a combination of theories would be more substantial and meaningful than the assumptions subsumed in a lone theoretical framework.

Discussion

The field of psychotherapy is characterized by a diverse range of specialized models. With all this diversity, is there any hope that a practitioner can develop skills in all of the existing techniques? How does a student decide which theories are most relevant to practice? In addressing these questions, it is well to consider the competitive strife and theoretical “cold war” that dominated the field of counseling and psychotherapy for decades.

The rivalry among theoretical orientations, dating back to Freud, has been characterized by various practitioners battling over who have the “best” way to bring about personality change. According to Norcross (1986a), the proliferation of therapy systems has been accompanied by a deafening cacophony of rival claims. He pleads for networks of practitioners who are willing to work toward rapprochement and integration.

Counselors must be prepared to deal with spiritual issues that lie at the very core and essence of the clients' being. If counselors are to effectively serve diverse clients, it ...