Discuss the use of
eclectic approaches to
treatment
By Mr Daniel Hansson
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The eclectic approach: An approach
that combines two or more techniques for
treatment. The treatment is adapted to
suit the needs of the individual or group
Examples of eclectic approaches
Gestalt therapy is often considered as eclectic as
it uses many different techniques
 Combining drug therapy and cognitive therapy
for treatment of depression
 Combining cognitive and behavioral therapy
(CBT) for treatment of depression
 Combining Chinese herbal medicine and
antidepressants for treatment of depression
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Different types of eclectical
approaches
Simultaneous use: Use of the therapies
at the same time
 Sequential use: Either therapy is used at
one time
 Stage-oriented use: One therapy is
used during the critical stage, the other
therapies are used at the maintenance
stage
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Supporting studies
Jing-Feng & Hong Xue (2002)
 Peterson (2006)
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Advantages
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Is supported by the biopsychosocial & stressvulnerability models
Offers a greater flexibility in treatment
Treatment can be modified to suit individual
needs
Less reductionist, more likely to address more
facets of a problem
Empowers the patient. Patient can choose his
treatment (more ethical)
Shares the strengths of both therapies
Limitations
Requires more of the therapist. The
therapist needs to be an expert of several
therapies
 Share the weaknesses of both therapies
 May be unsystematic and unfocused
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