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Personal Theory of Counseling/Psychotherapy

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Submitted By shannadowd
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Final Paper: Personal Theory of Counseling or Psychotherapy

Student:
Student ID #
COUN 6722
Program: MS in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling
Specialization: Trauma and Crisis Intervention

Walden University
May 18, 2012

The final paper for this course will demonstrate my ability to understand, integrate and apply theories of counseling and psychotherapy based on teachings from the course. My personal theory of counseling or psychotherapy will be presented by examining my basic view of human nature and the key factors I strongly believe account for changes in behavior. The nature of the therapist-client relationship and its relative importance will be explained as well as the key functions and role of the therapist. Key goals of therapy will be described and the particular techniques and procedures specific to my preferred therapeutic approach will be noted. Lastly, the populations and/or client issues best suited and least suited for the named approach will be discussed.
View of Human Nature My basic view of human nature is similar to the ideals of Thomas Hobbes. He perceived humans as individuals who are driven by specific desires which motivate their behaviors. Exhibiting certain behaviors will satisfy the desires (Malcolm, 2002). Hobbes’ theory coincides with my own that humans have the ability to decide whether to alter their behaviors to ultimately fulfill their desires (trial and error) or to relinquish their original desires in exchange for more attainable ones (compensate). The humans who choose to alter their behaviors may do so in one of two ways: ethically or unethically. The ethical route involves behaviors that are considered legal and respectable by societal standards; the unethical route involves behaviors that are usually criminal and cause hurt and harm to the individual and others. For example, a female who desires to

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