Danette Crandell
Counseling Theory and Practice
LP8- Behavior Therapy Reflection Paper
April 18, 2015
Behaviorism perceives psychological disorders as the result of maladaptive learning, as people are born with a blank slate. They do not assume that sets of symptoms reflect single underlying causes. Behaviorism assumes that all behavior is learnt from the environment and symptoms are acquired through classical conditioning and operant conditioning. Classical conditioning involves learning by memory and is usually the cause of most phobias. Operant conditioning involves learning by rewards and punishment, and can explain abnormal behavior should as eating disorders (S.A. McLeod, Behavioral Therapy, 2010). These are the first two phases in the development of behavior but social learning theory and cognitive behavior therapy are also a huge part. Social learning approach entails a perspective holding that behavior is best understood by taking into consideration the social conditions under which learning occurs and cognitive behavior therapy or CBT; blends both cognitive and behavioral methods to bring about change (Gerald Corey, 2009). An important feature of behavioral therapy is its focus on current problems and behavior, and on attempts to remove behavior the client finds troublesome. This contrasts greatly with psychodynamic therapy, where the focus is much more on trying to uncover unresolved conflicts from childhood or the cause of abnormal behavior (S.A. Mcleod,
Simply Psychology, 2010).
Key concepts of behavior therapy emphasizes current behavior as conflicting to historical experiences, precise treatment goals, diverse therapeutic strategies personalized to these goals,

and objective evaluation of therapeutic outcomes. Behavior therapy has proven in many areas and address intimacy in couples, relationships, forgiveness, chronic pain, anorexia, chronic distress, substance abuse, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and obesity. Some of the treatments practiced in behavior therapy include; relaxation training, systematic desensitization, virtual reality exposure, exposure and response prevention techniques, social skills training, modeling, behavioral rehearsal and homework, aversion therapy and punishment (Boundless Psychology,
2014). Within the concepts, certain goals are specified at the outset of the therapeutic process, which is to increase personal choice and to create new conditions for learning. The aim is to eliminate maladaptive behaviors and learn more effective behavior patterns for the clients to make progress, therefore; developing a good working relationship that is concrete and essential precondition for effective therapy. The therapist’s role is primarily to explore alternative courses of action and their possible consequences to teach concrete skills through the delivery of instructions, modeling, and performance in problem solving (Gerald Corey, 2009).
Nevertheless, CBT may not be successful or suitable for everyone. Some advantages and disadvantages of the approach include; can be as effective as medication in treating some mental health disorders and may be helpful in cases where medication alone has not worked. Can be completed in a relatively short period of time compared to other talking therapies, the highly structured nature of CBT means it can be provided in different formats, including in groups; especially in multicultural perspectives, self-help books and computer programs. The Skills that are taught in CBT are useful, practical and helpful strategies that can be incorporated into everyday life to help coping better with future stresses and difficulties even after the treatment has finished (NHS, 2014). Among the good and the bad, there are some limitations, especially in institutional settings; such as, schools, psychiatric hospitals, and mental health outpatient clinics,

because of the danger of prominent compatible behavior. Therapists can manipulate clients toward ends they have not chosen, which could focus instead on very specific and narrow behavioral problems that could definitely damage the shared relationship (Gerald Corey, 2009).
Surely, in all therapeutic approaches there is control by the therapist, who hopes to help change behavior in some way. This does not mean, however; the clients are helpless victims at the mercy of the impulses and values of the therapist. Current behavior therapists employ techniques aimed at increased self-direction and self-modification, which are skills clients learn in the therapy process. In general, behavior therapy; is not a cure for any condition. It is a teaching method to help cope with everyday life. Depending on individual needs, a person may only need it on a short-term basis. The exact length of a treatment plan depends on individual goals and progress made. During any treatment it is important to continue taking any medications as prescribed by a doctor. Some research shows that learned techniques in therapy may gradually reduce the need for medicine. However, each case is different, what works for some might not work for others so speak with a doctor if treatment doesn’t seem to be working
(Healthline Networks Inc., 2015).

References:
1) Behavior Therapy- Simply Psychology, (S.A. Mcleod, Simply Psychology, 2010) http://www.simplypsychology.org/behavioral-therapy.html
2) Behavioral Therapies (Boundless Psychology, 2014) https://www.boundless.com/psychology/textbooks/boundless-psychologytextbook/treating-psychological-disorders-19/treatment-approaches-98/behavioraltherapies-373-12908/
3) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) considerations, (NHS, 2014) http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Cognitive-behavioural-therapy/Pages/Advantages.aspx
4) Behavioral Therapy- definition and Patient Education (Healthline Networks, Inc.,
2005-2015) http://www.healthline.com/health/behavioral-therapy#ReadThisNext8
5) Theory and Practice of Counseling and Psychotherapy, Eighth Edition (Gerald Corey,
2009)