Integrative Behavioral Therapy Theory Analysis

As a counselor I have adopted an integrative approach to working with clients incorporates interventions from primarily three theories: Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, and Mindfulness-based theory. These three approaches match my personality and my basic conceptualization of the human struggle with emotional, mental, and relationship health. As a professional counselor, I believe in a holistic approach to therapy, which does not limit me to these three theories, however, I align most closely with these theories. I am open to any theoretical approach which may be helpful in meeting the individual needs of my cliental. I will now outline the specific value I find in each of these three theories.
I appreciate the fact solution-focused …show more content…
This theory enables clients to separate thought from emotion; teaching clients they have choice what to feel. This helps the client understand they need not be a victim of their emotions. CBT does this by teaching the client to be aware of thoughts. In this way, the client is given the choice whether to allow their inaccurate thoughts and beliefs to impact them negatively. In helping clients develop awareness of their internal process the client is provided choice, empowering them to make …show more content…
The main aspects of mindfulness are: awareness of mind and body, living in the present, acceptance, and self-compassion. This theory encourages practices which help practitioners to develop awareness of thoughts, identifying them as thoughts and not reality. Once again, this approach provides clients with choice; by separating thought from reality, clients have the opportunity to act contrary to a thought or belief, providing room for change. Mindfulness helps the client to be aware of their physical reaction to emotion, which aid in identifying when a client is experiencing emotion. This tool allows the client to address emotion earlier, before it becomes a problematic conscious realization. By living in the present, the client is able to avoid the stresses of the past or the future, this allows them to fully address and enjoy the present. Building upon this, acceptance allows the client to not resist aspects of life that are out of their control. This reduces anxiety and the client is able to apply their resources to issues in their power to change. Adding to this, self-compassion encourages clients to be kind to themselves and forgive themselves for past mistakes. This opens the client to apply themselves fully to their present and frees them to make positive changes towards obtaining their desired future.
As an individual, I have used solution-focused, CBT, and mindfulness approaches in