Theories of Counseling:
Integrative Theory
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Integrative Theory
Putting It All Together
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Many clinicians use three or four different theories in their practice.
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Some look to common elements within all theories.
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Some ascribe to technical eclecticism or integrate several theories into
one.
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Some believe in specific treatments for specific issues or symptoms.
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Integrative Theory
Are Some Theories Better Than Others?
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Research seems to show that there is little therapeutic difference between
the theories and each are about equally effective. This may be due to:
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The fact that the different approaches are more similar than what we
think.
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Regardless of theory, most practitioners do similar things.

There are many different ways to achieve wellness.

Research measurements are not picking up the subtle differences
between theories.
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Integrative Theory
Integrating Theories
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It is important to know how theories are different and how they are the
same.
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One method of integration is to read everything you can on the theories
you like best.
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Another is applying them and learning through trial and error which
theories work best.
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A third way is to group theories together by their significant features.
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Integrative Theory
Integrating Theories
How do theories differ in relation to:
Philosophy
Techniques
Theory
Treatment Goals
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Integrative Theory
Integrating Theories
Specifics to look for:
Action vs. Insight
Cognitive vs. Affective
T
H
E
O
R
Y
Present vs. Past
Rigid vs. Flexible Roles
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Integrative Theory
Integrating Theories
Another way to sort theories is by counselor’s
role and presence:
Ways of Being
Ways of Intervening
Ways of Knowing
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Integrative Theory
Why Integrate Theories?
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Because one theory does not fit all people or all situations.
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Manualizaiton of Therapy: Development of specific , empirically tested
and standardized treatments for a specific diagnosis.
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It enables a counselor to see each client as unique and apply theories
that fit that client in regard to culture, presenting issue, and diversity.
“Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”
Integrative Theory
What Research Says: Common Factors in Therapy
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Hope and Expectations: Clients have expectations that shape therapy.
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Relationship: The therapeutic relationship is one of the most important
elements of therapy.
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Therapeutic Techniques: All therapy effects some sort of change on the
client.
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Outside Factors: Client variables also play a big role.
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Integrative Theory
What Clients Think Is Important In Therapy
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Having a private place to talk with someone to listen.
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The therapist’s personality, especially when the therapist is kind, caring,
and supportive.
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Being understood.
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Integrative Theory
Integrative Theory in Practice
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The therapist is intentional in what he or she does. It is not a random
process.
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Counseling strategies are changed or adjusted to fit the client’s needs,
worldview, or issues.
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The therapist specifically considers cultural implications regarding
methods chosen.
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Integrative Theory
Integrative Theory in Practice
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One basic tenet is that clients have many of their own answers and are
found within the language of the client.
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The therapist looks at what the client says for clues to helping the client.
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One goal of integrative therapy is to help the client find out what they
really want and then help him or her achieve it.
“Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”
Integrative Theory
BASIC ID
A method that looks at major areas of human functioning:
B = Behavior
A = Affect
S = Sensations
I = Images
C = Cognitions
I = Interpersonal Relationships
D = Drugs, biological functions, nutrition and exercise
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Integrative Theory
Questions to Ask Yourself About Constructing Your Own Theory
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What is your worldview?
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How do you define ethical practice?
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How do you define empathy?
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What microskills are you skillful at and which do you need to work on?
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Integrative Theory
Questions to Ask Yourself About Constructing Your Own Theory
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How do you make sense of the focusing concept?
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What do you believe about research and continuing education?
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What do you believe about multiculturalism?
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How do you feel about spirituality?
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Integrative Theory
Questions to Ask Yourself About Constructing Your Own Theory
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What theories do you like? How might you integrate these?
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How has your developmental, familial or cultural history shaped who you
are?
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Resources
Ivey, A. E., D’Andrea, M., Ivey, M. B. and Morgan, L. S. (2002). Theories of counseling
and psychotherapy: A multicultural perspective, 5th ed. Boston, MA.: Allyn &
Bacon.
James, R. K. & Gilliland, B. E. (2003). Theories and strategies in counseling and
psychotherapy, 5th ed. Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.
Kottler, J. A. (2002). Theories in counseling and therapy: An experiential approach.
Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.
“Copyright © Allyn & Bacon 2004”