Page 1 - LN 1_Therapuetic Approaches

Class - XII

Psychology

Chapter 5: Therapeutic Approaches

MODULE - 1

(Topics: Nature and process of psychotherapy, therapeutic relationship, type of therapies)

Short Note

NATURE AND PROCESS OF PSYCHOTHERAPY

➢ Psychotherapy is a voluntary relationship between the one seeking treatment or
the client and the one who treats or the therapist.
➢ The purpose of the relationship is to help the client to solve the psychological
problems being faced by her or him.
➢ Psychotherapies aim at changing the maladaptive behaviours, decreasing the
sense of personal distress, and helping the client to adapt better to her/his
environment.
➢ All psychotherapeutic approaches have the following characteristics :
(i) There is systematic application of principles while using it.
(ii) Practical training under expert supervision is essential for the therapist to
practice psychotherapy.
(iii) The therapeutic situation involves a therapist and a client who seeks and
receives help for her/his emotional problems.
(iv) The interaction of these two persons — the therapist and the client — results
in the formation of the therapeutic relationship.
➢ All psychotherapies aim at a few or all of the following goals:
(i) Reinforcing client’s resolve for betterment.
(ii) Lessening emotional pressure.
(iii) Unfolding the potential for positive growth.
(iv) Modifying habits.
(v) Changing thinking patterns.
(vi) Increasing self-awareness.
(vii) Improving interpersonal relations and communication.
(viii)Facilitating decision-making.
(ix) Becoming aware of one’s choices in life.
(x) Relating to one’s social environment in a more creative and self-aware manner.