Principles of Counseling

Psychoanalytic Theory1

Founders of the Theory1

Concepts and View of Human Nature1

Role of Counselor and Goal of Counseling Theory2

Strengths and Limitations of Theory2

Application of Theory:3

Founders of the Theory4

Concepts and View of Human Nature4

Role of Counselor and Goal of Counseling Theory5

Strengths and Limitations of Theory5

Application of Theory6

Concepts and View of Human Nature7

Role of Counselor and Goal of Counseling Theory7

Strengths and Limitations of Theory8

Application of Theory8

Principles of Counseling

Psychoanalytic Theory

Founders of the Theory

In 1990s, psychoanalytical theory was regarded as the foundation of contemporary counseling and psychoanalysis (Fine, 1990; Hornstein, 1992). From 1970s to 1990s, a number of therapies utilized for counseling purposes were derivatives of principles, techniques of psychoanalytical approach (Fine, 1979; 1990; Goldman & Milman, 1978). The founder of psychoanalytical theory is Sigmund Freud. The therapists were called Freudian and Neo-Freudian who extended the theory of Freud.

Concepts and View of Human Nature

Freud divided human mind into three hypothetical parts named as, id, the ego, and the superego (Hall, 1954). Id is present from origin and is the primary cause of mental power and nature (e.g. Sex and aggression). Id basically operation pleasure principle which is a way, of reducing stress through perusing pleasure and eluding distress (Arlow, 1995, pp. 21--22; Fine, 1973, p. 14).

The ego interrelates and connects id to the outer world. It functions on self-justifying and independent principles. Ego is reality based. In reality ego withholds id impulses of pleasure seeking until the satisfying object is present. Ego has the ability to abide tension and delay wish fulfillment Ego has executive function of interacting id and super ego with the exterior realm (Fine, 1973, p. 15; Giovacchini, 1977, p.21; Hansen, Stevic& Warner, 1982, p.29)

The super ego is the right, societal and justice outlet of the individuality. It tells the perfect, not the factual. It has moral and social guard function (Fine, 1973, pp. 15--16; Giovacchini, 1977, p. 21).

Role of Counselor and Goal of Counseling Theory

The emphasis of psychotherapy is on the functioning of the individual's mind. The primary and essential goal of therapy is to 'know yourself'(Giovacchini, 1977, p. 36). The role of counselor is to utilize a number of approaches in order to heighten the scrutiny of transference. It is equally essential to explore the client's emotional, situation and physiological willingness to take part and avail the benefits of counseling.

Strengths and Limitations of Theory

Nurturance, autonomy of client and self-control in the transference relationship are regarded as the most matchless and valued quality of psychoanalysis (Alpher, Henry, &Strupp, 1990; Arlow, 1995; Auld & Human, 1991, pp. 5- 22; Giovacchini, 1977, p. 40; Scharff, 1997; Scharff & Scharff, 1998; Warren, 1994).

One of the limitations of psychoanalysis is its ancient development. Our society and values are changed from Victorian to modern. Another drawback is its therapy requires a number of years to complete. Applying psychoanalytical therapy on women is also criticized and controversial (Auld and Hyman 1991, pp. 219--238). Since the roles of women has also changed dramatically.

Application of Theory:

On the case of Carla, ...