The Five Major Psychotherapy Theoretical Frameworks

The Five Major Psychotherapy Theoretical Frameworks
This essay is based upon a study of my personal reflections, emotions and opinions of the five major
psychotherapy theoretical frameworks that I have studied over a five week period as part of a
postgraduate diploma in psychology: psychoanalysis; behaviour therapy; person–centred and
humanistic therapies; cognitive behaviour therapy; and family therapy. The purpose is to assist in
determining which framework is the best fit for me as a future therapist based on my personality, life
experiences and beliefs. The main basis of this evaluation is a weekly reflective journal (refer to
Appendix A) I have maintained in which I recorded a range of background theoretical information,
'gut' reactions, pertinent life experiences and reports on practical 'homework' activities. I begin by
undertaking a qualitative analysis of my journal which provides the insight to make the most
appropriate selection of psychotherapy theory. Once the selection is made, I then provide a more
focused evaluation of the chosen theoretical framework, based on a review of the literature,
interwoven with pertinent elements from my journal.
Qualitative Analysis of Reflective Journal
Psychoanalysis (Appendix A, p.ix) As a lead in to psychoanalysis, as part of my journal I kept a
daily dream log for a week (Appendix A, p. i). Although enjoyable, I did find myself questioning the
validity and lack of scientific support. There seems to be too much room for different interpretations
or misinterpretations. This
... Get more on HelpWriting.net ...

Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Jon Kabat–Zinn is responsible for bringing mindfulness into the American mainstream and
encouraging it's integration into psychotherapy practices. Over the years, the benefits of mindfulness
have been observed and empirically studied, and psychologists have developed specific treatments
integrating mindfulness with behavior therapy. As such, these treatments have become part of what
is known as the third wave of behavior therapy. Marsha Linehan, a psychologist and researcher at
the University of Washington, integrated mindfulness with traditional behavior therapy and created
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a widely–used skills–based program for the treatment of
borderline personality disorder, depression and suicidal behavior. Mindfulness ... Show more
content on Helpwriting.net ...
It was developed by John Teasdale, Mark Williams, and Zindel Segal. MBCT is a hybrid of
traditional cognitive behavior therapy and mindfulness, and is built on the idea that people who are
depressed tend to have automatic negative thoughts and attach negative judgments to their
experiences. The mindfulness aspect of treatment helps individuals become more aware of their
automatic thoughts, and to simply observe them as transient events, rather than holding onto them.
As individuals become more aware of their automatic thoughts, they develop the capacity to move
from a perspective of reaction to reflection. MBCT is in part based on Jon Kabat–Zinn's eight–week
Mindfulness–Based Stress Reduction program and echoes much of the theory put forth in Kabat–
Zinn's program. The creators of MBCT developed it with the intention of helping people who have
suffered from repeated bouts of depression. The MBCT program is taught over the course of an
eight–week program, where participants are encouraged to use guided meditations to help them
cultivate a more mindful way of

Acceptance And Commitment Therapy ( Act )
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is one of the recent contemporary psychological
interventions used today. Researched over the past 40 years, and more effectively utilized in the past
decade for a diverse range of clinical conditions. The initial industry reaction to (ACT) was free–
flowing, both positive and negative. Nevertheless, Hayes (2008) suggested that the negative
reactions mainly stemmed from just the misunderstandings of ACT. Hofmann & Asmundson (2008)
had much to say about the technical level (ACT), and made comment that it was too similar to
cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Some would argue "too similar" ever so "minor" (Corrigan,
2001, Hofmann, 2008; Hofmann & Asmundson, 2008; Leahy, 2008; Ost & Velten, 2007) ... Show
more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Core components of (ACT) are acceptance and mindfulness. Techniques which come from a
Buddhism philosophy, suggesting the way to emerge from suffering, is to firstly accept and identify
its origin, and then detach from its source (Hart, 1987). One of ACT's assumptions is that suffering
is normal and unavoidable; and part of human experiences; but it's the attempt to control or avoid
painful experiences that lead to suffering. (ACT) paves the way to help let go of the struggles of
pain; and be mindful of these negative thoughts. The goal of (ACT) is to increase psychological
flexibility through its core processes, as a positive skill and not avoidance. (ACT) can improve one's
health through learning the processes of how to accept willingly what is actually in our personal
control. The aim is not to fight or struggle with our internal thoughts, but to understand what isn't in
our control, and accept what is going on, and how to deal with that. Now its human nature to try and
control our thoughts or to the contrary we may just tend to avoid them. However, efforts to control
or elimination these can actually interfere and create barriers with moving toward personally–
identified and valued goals. (ACT) will teach psychological skills to deal with painful thoughts and
feelings effectively,

Depression Symptoms And Treatment Of Depression
If you 've been treated for depression but your symptoms haven 't improved, you may have
treatment–resistant depression. Taking an antidepressant or going to psychological counseling
(psychotherapy) eases depression symptoms for most people. But with treatment–resistant
depression, standard treatments aren 't enough. They may not help much at all, or your symptoms
may improve, only to keep coming back. If your primary care doctor prescribed antidepressants and
your depression symptoms continue despite treatment, ask your doctor if he or she can recommend a
medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions (psychiatrist).
The psychiatrist will review your medical history and may: Ask about life situations ... Show more
For some people, it takes even longer. Increase your dose. Because people respond to medications
differently, you may benefit from a higher dose of medication than is usually prescribed. Ask your
doctor whether this is an option for you – don 't change your dose on your own. Switch
antidepressants. For a number of people, the first antidepressant tried isn 't effective. You may need
to try several before you find one that works for you. Add another type of antidepressant. Your
doctor may prescribe two different classes of antidepressants at the same time. That way they 'll
affect a wider range of brain chemicals linked to mood. These chemicals are neurotransmitters that
include dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine. Add a medication generally used for another
condition. Your doctor may prescribe a medication that 's generally used for another mental or
physical health disorder, along with an antidepressant. This approach, known as augmentation, may
include antipsychotics, mood stabilizers (lithium or anti–seizure medications), anti–anxiety
medications, thyroid hormone, beta blockers, stimulants or other drugs. Consider the cytochrome
P450 (CYP450) genotyping test. This test checks for specific genes that indicate how well your
body can process (metabolize) a medication. Because of inherited (genetic) traits that cause
variations in certain P450 enzymes, medications may affect each person differently.

Acceptance And Commitment Theory Analysis
Mindfulness can be depicted as an individual's physiological approach that draws his/her attention to
the external and internal incidences currently taking place. It is often a state where an individual is
conscious of what is taking place in their environment. It is no surprise that majority of individuals
are not thrilled with the news of having a health issue that will need constant care and assessment. In
fact, most people find such news traumatizing besides grappling with other hard moments. All of
these challenges mean that it is critical to assist individuals that have difficulties in coping with their
emotional response. Thus, there are two theories correlated to mindfulness used in behavioral health
that alter negative thoughts from varied angles and approach acceptance. These theories, acceptance
and commitment theory and cognitive theory will be compared and contrasted in this study. The
Acceptance and commitment theory (ACT), is a clinical approach that aids individuals in coping
with negative ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
This then helps individuals in a manner that is consistent with their goals and further helps to
mitigate their emotional stresses. This theory is a valuable tool for anxiety, depression and other
issues of behavioral health due to its advanced results (Wetherel et al., 2016). Even though the CBT
theory is typically thought in the setting of behavioral health, patterns of maladaptive thinking may
impact the behaviors of people associated with many states. The essence of the theory is to assist
individuals to pinpoint and fight negative thoughts. The theory lends itself to particular exercises
and activities that people can practice on their own. According to this theory, it is critical to set
anticipations with people that altering patterns of negative thoughts takes a considerable amount of
effort and

Short Term Benefits Of Relaxation Therapy
concepts and apply discernment. The second is that though CBT can be performed on individuals
with intellectual disabilities, it may be considered a long lasting approach. To compensate, the
therapist will need to recognize the importance of duration of therapy, understand the characteristics
of individuals with intellectual difficulties, and create a working dialogue not only with the clients,
but with their support systems and caregivers (Stenfert–Kroese, et al., 2014)
Research has shown the short–term benefits of relaxation therapy with people who have intellectual
disabilities, more specifically, behavioral relaxation treatments (BRT) produce a calming effect in
individuals with ID (Lindsay & Morrison, 1996). In 2009 Brown and Hooper

Compare and contrast Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and...
Introduction
The current essay focuses on two different therapeutic techniques, Acceptance and Commitment
Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. The initial component of the essay outlines the
therapeutic orientations of both approaches; then, the different approaches are related to a case study
of a young lady called Linda who is seeking counseling due to feelings of hopelessness. The essay is
then finished with some of the author's personal opinions on the two therapeutic approaches.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
While Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) has been in development since the 1980's, it
has only recently risen to prominence and is sometimes described as a 'new wave' therapeutic
technique. ACT is a ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
SFBT holds that language and words are very important, and that helping clients talk about their
lives in more useful language can lead to positive change. One of the major differences between
SFBT and other psychotherapies is that while SFBT acknowledged that clients tend to come to
therapy to talk about their problems, the SFBT will not encourage them to talk about their problems,
but rather to talk about solutions (Rafter, Evans and Iveson, 2012).
One of the central assumptions of SFBT is that the client will choose the goals for therapy and that
the client themselves have resources which they will use in making changes (Macdonald, 2011). The
therapeutic conversation aims at restoring hope and self–esteem, while reducing anxiety to a point
where people become able to think more widely and creatively about solutions. SFBT holds that
high anxiety can restrict cognition and attention to the surrounding environment and that, by
reducing anxiety, it would allow for wider thinking about possible approaches to problems, as well
as mobilizing their existing strengths and resources to address their desired goals (Rafter et al,
2012).
Therapeutic relationship and goals
The

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (Gad) Is Characterised By
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is characterised by exaggerated and excessive anxiety and
worry concerning everyday life events (Roemer, Orsillo, & Barlow, 2002, as cited in Treanor,
Erisman, Salter–Pedneault, Roemer, & Orsillo, 2010). This can include; work, family, money and
many other factors. Approximately 2% of the population is affected by GAD (Stapinski, Abbott, &
Rapee, 2010, as cited in Burton, Westen & Kowalski, 2015). GAD majorly affects the way people
think, which can also result in physical symptoms. Patients can exhibit a broad range of symptoms,
including; insomnia, fatigue, headaches, nausea, sweating, irritability and so on (Sansgiry & Sail,
2006). There are many different methods employed for the treatment of GAD. ... Show more content
on Helpwriting.net ...
For some patients suffering from GAD, results can be seen even before 12 weeks. Treatment
methods characteristically include reading about the problem and keeping records amid
appointments, in addition to completing assignments in the home (Mitte, 2005). Mitte (2005) relied
on many aspects to determine the effectiveness of CBT over Pharmacotherapy, gathering 65 control
studies. The durability of the outcomes was a key fact that the research relied on to make a
conclusion concerning the effectiveness of CBT. Mitte (2005) suggested that the outcomes of using
CBT were long lasting, compared to the use of medication. However, in a study conducted by Rynn,
Russell, Erickson, Detke, Ball, Dinkel, Rickels, & Raskin (2006) found that Pharmacotherapy was,
in fact, an effective method of treatment for GAD patients. Patients who received the drug treatment
over the placebo reported a dramatic reduction GAD symptom severity and maintenance (Rynn et
al., 2006). Unlike ACT which takes close to three months (Avdagic, Morrissey & Boschen, 2014)
and ERT around five months (Mennin, Fresco, Ritter & Heimberg 2015), CBT results can be visible
between 12–16 weeks. However, this could be a disadvantage, due to the short time which patients
are exposed to treatment and the chance of symptoms reoccurring. Although evidence exists of
success using CBT for emotional disorders like GAD, (Mitte, 2005), Mennin (2014) noted a
sizeable subgroup of patients failing to show

The Third Wave Of Behavioral Therapy
The Third Wave of Behavioral Therapy
The third wave of behavioral therapy includes acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical
behavior therapy, and mindfulness–based cognitive therapy. These types of therapies are designed to
help people accept difficult life experiences and to persuade individuals to act on their core values.
An evolution of cognitive–behavioral therapy, ACT, MBCT, and DBT not only include the thought
process within the behavioral network, but mindfulness and acceptance as well. Instead of teaching
people to control their thoughts and feelings in the case of CBT, ACT & DBT draws from far eastern
philosophies of noticing and accepting the things in life that you cannot change.
Acceptance and commitment therapy, formally called comprehensive distancing, helps individuals
connect their thoughts, feelings, and emotions with their self–as–context or the self that is
experiencing and observing the world. The western philosophy of psychology teaches people that
some possess troubled minds while others do not. In ACT, the theory suggests that troubles come
within ourselves and arise out of hiccups up in our thought or emotional processes. As a result of
these emotional and cognitive disturbances, ACT holds that people thrash against these unpleasant
thoughts and feelings. Instead of just accepting them, people create experiential avoidance for
themselves, pushing thoughts out of their head or failing to engage in behaviors that make them
anxious or depressed.

Solution Focused Therapy Essay
2. In Solution Focused Therapy, there are three types of therapist–client relationships which can
exist during session, explain these relationships. In the modern era of managed health care systems,
brief work or a limited number of sessions prevails as the preferred standard for outpatient
psychotherapy. In consideration of having a short window of time to develop rapport and therapeutic
alliance, it is essential that therapists expeditiously determine buy–in and commitment before
shifting into the therapy work, especially with couple's therapy. It is not uncommon for one partner
to attend couples' therapy at the behest of their significant other. Consequently, their level of
engagement and commitment may differ from that of the other ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
Visitors often present with hostility, if not reluctance. The cordial approach reduces tension and
defensiveness and may lead to increased engagement, buy–in, and exploration. Depending on the
level of engagement, a therapist may suggest to a visitor to "consider" the problem or provide
education. In a complainant relationship, particularly when there is a lack of accountability, the
response continues with compliments and acceptance of their viewpoint. Tasks and homework are
limited to observation to increase insight and exploring exceptions to the presented complaint.
Change at this stage may be invoked by leveraging the hesitance and prescribing the client "go
slow". This subtle prodding continues consideration of potential solutions. Finally, with customer
relationships, the most therapeutic work is accessible. Therapists have more latitude to be more
directive and prescribe involved homework

Acceptance And Commitment Therapy
The chosen article by Lanza & Menendez (2013), stated that the acceptance and commitment
therapy for drug abuse in incarcerated women has shown treatment intervention evidence based on
assessment prior to treatment and at the end of treatment on substance use disorder. For example, the
evidence intervention started by randomly selected thirty–one women with the issue of substance
abuse and were three times evaluated before began their treatments. However, the acceptance and
commitment therapy with the application of evaluating their urines after sixteen times acceptance
and commitment interventions therapy observed 27.8 % abstinence rates were achieved within the
duration of six months. The treatments showed improvements on reductions of anxiety ... Show
more content on Helpwriting.net ...
For example, women on substance use disorder and addition are bound to live on psychological
disorders such as depression, anxiety disorder, and antisocial disorders. The severity of drug abuse
and addiction promotes incarcerations and severely homelessness to such women. Awareness of on
the consequence of impact on substance use disorder and addiction needs be effectively emphasized
to enable the user abstain from gratifying themselves on illicit drug use. It enhances our
understanding of the contextual nature of human behavior and are useful in formulating assessments
at all levels of practice. Consequently, conflict theory focusses on the distribution of resources,
power and inequality mostly on the rich thereby creating a harmful environment for the poor
masses. For example, there is no equal distribution of wealth therefore, benefiting the wealthy to
attain higher in education as a result the poor are not able to afford and compete with the wealthy in
paying for their educational attainment. The primary assumption is that system theory ....... in
addition, assumption in conflict theory view society as in two perspectives; the rich and the poor.
The rich controls the economy and available resources and the poor are still struggling on how to
end incarceration among the women and the homelessness. The reason behind the system and
conflict theory are the system theories emphasizes on the person and its environment. A person and
the environment has a lot to do with a woman who is incarnated or homelessness who is struggling
with drug addiction which without proper redirection of how to obtain for the proper treatment of
the addiction eventually end up in the jail. while Karl Marx made clear understanding of equality
existing in the society between the rich and the poor. The poor benefits

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Essay
Summary Researchers such as Hayes and Strosahl (2005) defines acceptance and commitment
therapy (ACT) as an empirically based intervention technique from the cognitive behavior model of
psychotherapy that employs mindfulness and acceptance methods mixed in various ways. Grounded
within the practical concept of functional contextualism and based on the comprehensive idea of
language and cognition, ACT is different from the normal or traditional cognitive behavioral
therapy. The differences are manifested in the paradigm of instead of teaching people to control their
emotions, ACT teaches them to acknowledge, accept and embrace the emotions and or feelings
(Hayes, Louma, Bond, Masuda, & Lillis, 2006). Primarily, western traditions ... Show more content
After the cognitive defusion presence is the next step which promotes a continuous non–judgmental
interaction with psychological event as they happen. The primary objective for this step is to have
the individual experience the world more honestly in order to ensure the behavior is less rigid. The
next value is self as context and when used correctly, the human language will lead to a sense of self
as a perspective and it will provide a inspirational spiritual side to normal verbal humans this allows
the individual to be aware of the past occurrence without attachment to them. At this point in the
process, a person needs to add values. Values are chosen characteristics of purposeful nature which
are instantiated moment by moment. Under the ACT guidelines there are a variety of ways to
accomplish new directions either in family, career, or faith. The last core value is committed action
which encourages the creation of bigger and bigger patterns of effective action connected with
chosen values (Hayes & Strosahl, 2005). These core values are overlapping and interrelated.
How can ACT be applied? The fundamentals of ACT is a change in internal and external verbal
behavior which means a person has to recognize and embrace that their feelings are the results of
circumstances in their environment and fighting those feelings makes matters worse. The process
helps the individual accept the situation as it is for now

Can Mindfulness Interventions Help People Who Suffer From...
Can mindfulness interventions help people who suffer from chronic musculoskeletal pain?
Matthew Rodda
A literature review
Summary
Sadly, for some patients chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) can feel like a life sentence. All to
often in clinical settings we see patients who psychologically combine chronic pain with resistance,
the outcome often being suffering, this suffering, however, is a choice. Whilst there are behavioural
and psychological components involved, recent research has looked into various patient–led forms
of self–help or management of pain, one such method being mindfulness. Although limited, the
current evidence in this field suggests that there is a place for such interventions for the acceptance
or management of pain in chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Further research may wish to look at
the quality of research into this area including a superior level of randomised controlled trials
(RCTs) to test pain acceptance specific mindfulness interventions in matched subjects.
Key Words. Pain acceptance, Pain management, Mindfulness, Chronic pain, Mindfulness Based
Stress Reduction, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness Based Pain Management,
Mindfulness Meditation.
Search results. English–language studies of 3 stars or above including some seminal work over
history up to October 2016 were located using several search engines. A total of 1341 potentially
relevant studies returned from the search. Studies were included if they met the following

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Upon exploring multiple modalities for the treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD),
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy by far was the most interesting. What intrigued the most
about this therapy was that it is directed at decreasing a client's avoidance strategies when coping
with unwanted thoughts and emotions while increasing acceptance of the past events causing
anxiety. Normally when clients are experiencing unwanted thoughts and memories of traumatizing
events, they avoid behaviors and places that remind them of those memories. However, with the use
of ACT these once avoided behaviors can finally be relieved. The main focus of the therapy is not
solely focused on symptom reduction; it is mainly used to create a commitment to ... Show more
This process takes the focus off the so–called "symptoms" and places emphasis on more
psychological freedom.A client's progression in therapy is measured by decreasing experiential
avoidance, increasing the acceptance of internal experiences and the traumatizing event. By
targeting experiential avoidance, I think ACT will be more affective being that experiential
avoidance is mainly correlated as a PTSD symptom. Techniques/Interventions The techniques for
treating PTSD with ACT are outlined by six distinct essential methods (Thompson, Luoma, and
LeJeune, 2013). The primary target to ACT therapy is improving psychological flexibility. In other
words a technique used in this therapy involves enhancing the individuals ability to psychologically
present and participate in valued activities or behaviors. Moreover, an individual whom is a victim
of PTSD usually has a lower level of psychological flexibility, due to trauma related experiences
that affects their current behavior. With ACT, a client can practice acceptance and mindfulness
techniques to encourage more valued patterns of behaviors by implementing effective actions
(Thompson et al, 2013). For example, if a client's valued pattern of behavior was to not feel anxiety
when being in a claustrophobic area, we can implement mindfulness strategies to reinforce positive
feelings to relax the individual's anxieties. The first step in ACT process is to create comfort with the
thought of

Self-Reflection Paper About Cbt and Act
Self–Reflection Paper about CBT and ACT The late 1960s through the 1990s represented a second
generation of behavior therapy and it is called Cognitive Behavior Therapy. It is born from the view
that the history of behavior therapy, in which cognitive factors assumed greater importance in both
therapy and practice. The central idea is that psychological disorders involve dysfunctional thinking
and modifying dysfunctional thinking is linked to improvement in symptoms. Since the 1990s,
acceptance–based models of CBT such as acceptance and commitment therapy and dialectical
behavior therapy came into prominence. These approaches are represented as a third generation of
CBT. Because, they argued that they distinguish them from earlier ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
The therapist can focus on the dysfunctional cognitions, can encourage her to reexamine and correct
cognitions about her relationships. So, her emotional distress can be modified. ACT criticizes CBT
about changing the cognitions, but a maladaptive cognition cannot be accepted. A client with major
depressive disorder who does not keep in touch the real life or does not go out the bed cannot be
accepted. Furthermore, ACT literature criticizes CBT that the link between cognitive therapy and
basic cognitive science is weak. However, there is a directly link between cognitive therapy and
science. Extinction learning is highly related with exposure therapies for anxiety disorders. With the
help of extinction learning in animals, in exposure therapies clients' symptoms and the relapse rate
are reduced. With the exposure therapies, CBT can send the reverse messages to brain and can
makes behavioral changes. So it may help the client to find new pathways. Later, it focuses on
automatic thoughts and dysfunctional beliefs. For a client with severe OCD who has no cognition,
exposure by touching the sink can be helpful. He/she realize that it can be acceptable anxiety. On the
other hand, ACT is also effective in anxiety. They claim that control is the problem not the solution.
Instead of avoiding the anxiety, they focus on accepting anxiety and teach the client live with

Prescribing Drugs
A government policy sought to solve the problem of doctors over prescribing medicine is leading to
a bigger issue. According to Dart et al. 49 states have started using prescription–drug monitoring
programs (2015). Many patients were abusing prescription pain relievers such as OxyContin and
Vicodin. Since this was discovered doctors became less willing to prescribe these types of easily
abused pain relievers. Those who already became addicted to opioids and other drugs needed to
obtain the drug in any way possible in order to satisfy their addiction. As mentioned by Manchikanti
and Singh, people turned to doing heroine since it is the same type of opioid drug as the prescription
medications they were abusing (2008). Another possible ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net
...
Young people whose parents were drug abusers are far more like to abuse drugs themselves
("Societal Causes of Addiction, n.d.). This is because they have been exposed to the idea of it for a
prolonged time. Societal pressures can affect persons of any age. Communities are lacking efficient
drug prevention and intervention programs that play a key role in informing the youth about
substance abuse. While the youth might be taking drugs to try to fit in with what they believe to be
social norms, some adults take drugs to alleviate stress. This stress can be caused by many reasons.
Some are stressed because of school or work while others are stressed because they feel excluded
from society. Poverty stricken and unemployed environments can also lead to a higher vulnerability
to drug abuse. People within these environments feel excluded from society and this can fuel one's
reliance on drugs and further fuel their addiction. Another environmental cause for the rise of heroin
use especially in the suburbs is how common the drugs have gotten. Heroin is being mass produced
in other countries and then smuggled into the United States (Manchikanti and Singh, 2008). When
the drugs are being distributed within the country they are being sold mixed with other substances,
this allowing for more heroin to be available. Clinical treatments for someone who is addicted to
opioids such as heroin can be drug therapy. Medications can help restore

Relational Frame Theory And Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
There are two main theories applied to relationships, Social Exchange Theory and Equity Theory
underpin commonly used behavioural therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Enhanced
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Integrative Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. More recent studies
in neuroscience and behaviour and the importance of language have led to the development of
Relational Frame Theory and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as an alternative approach. In
this essay I will outline the relationship models comparing and contrasting them. I will also
introduce and briefly touch on Relational Frame Theory and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
as an additional approach to couples counselling and offer considerations which an ... Show more
The four stages Sampling, Bargaining, Commitment and Institutionalisation describe how a
relationship forms and settles. The theory is predominantly behaviourist and assumes that humans
operate as rational beings making decisions based on costs and benefits and that their decision
making is motivated by the desire to get basic individual needs met. The first stage in the model,
Sampling, is exploring the costs and rewards of various interactions through a number of different
friendships and relationships and observing various people in their relationships in order to discern
what works and what doesn't. Psychologists interpret the social behaviour of adolescents and young
people as they flit from one relationship/friendship to another as this sampling stage in action.
Bargaining is the natural progression undertaken as a new relationship is under consideration.
What's in it for me? If I do/give this what will I get in return? At this stage attraction based around
similar attitudes or constructs are explored with a view to establishing the viability of a possible
relationship. Both parties might ask themselves 'Is it going to be worthwhile investing in this?'
Commitment follows when the two parties know enough about each other to develop the ability to
predict each others' behaviour and therefore elicit reward/pleasure/satisfaction from each other.
Institutionalisation is the

Treatment Options For Excoriation Disorder
Treatment Options for Excoriation Disorder Sarah Rebecca Carter Auburn University School of
Nursing Treatment Options for Excoriation Disorder Excoriation disorder, also known as skin
picking disorder, is characterized by the frequent scratching or picking of the skin. Picking most
commonly occurs in areas of the body that the patient can reach, such as the arms, inner thighs, face,
fingers, and upper back (Turner, Sutton, & Sharma, 2014). The incessant skin picking can cause
physical and/or psychosocial damage, including scabs, scars, open wounds, infection, shame,
embarrassment, and social isolation. Skin picking disorder is more common in females, with picking
episodes lasting anywhere from five minutes to twelve hours per day (Gelinas & Gagnon, 2013).
Though excoriation disorder can occur on its own, it often coexists with other psychiatric issues.
Patients who are diagnosed with excoriation disorder are often also diagnosed with anxiety
disorders, mood disorders, eating disorders, and substance abuse disorders (Capriotti, Ely,
Snorrason, & Woods, 2015). Excoriation disorder is relatively common, but little research has been
done to evaluate the best and most effective course of treatment to control and/or eliminate the
disease (Oliveira, Leppink, Derbyshire, & Grant, 2015). Due to the lack of research concerning skin
picking disorder and the disease's effects on the mind and body, it is important for psychiatric nurses
to familiarize themselves with both the

The Effects of Sport on Levels of Mindfulness and...
The area of research that will be of focal concern is conscious awareness in relation to the concept
of 'mindfulness'. In addition to this, analogous research surrounding the topic area will be integrated,
with particular attention being paid to an important aspect of sport psychology known as 'flow'.
Mindfulness has its roots in ancient spiritual traditions, namely Buddhism (Keng, Smoski, &
Robins, 2011), and is commonly defined as "the awareness that emerges through paying attention on
purpose, in the present moment, and non–judgmentally to the unfolding experience moment by
moment" (Kabat–Zinn, 2003, p. 145). Definitions like the preceding are common in contemporary
literature, however many authors have suggested that mindfulness is a ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
Beginning with the work of Jon Kabat–Zinn and the practice of mindfulness–based–stress–reduction
(MBSR), which explored the use of mindfulness meditation in treating patients with chronic pain
(Keng, Smoski, & Robins, 2011), a growing body of research concerning the cognitive–behavioural
tradition emerged. Within this tradition it was assumed that cognition plays a vital role in
determining behaviour (Huss & Baer, 2007), therefore, by drawing on the two components of
mindfulness put forth by Bishop et al (2004), clinicians established that the development of
mindfulness skills, such as focussed breathing (which cultivates the state of mindfulness), can lead
to; increased self–awareness and self–acceptance; reduced reactivity to thoughts and emotions; and
improved ability to cope with problematic situations (Linehan, 1993). In addition to this, research
revealed that those who undergo mindfulness training also experience improved ability to sustain
attention in the present moment (Marks, 2008). From a similar stance, recent studies carried out by
sport psychologists provided an indication towards a relationship between aspects of mindfulness
and sporting performance, in which theories of 'flow' and 'peak performance' were evidently
compatible with the constructs of mindfulness (Kaufman, Glass, & Arnkoff, 2009).
Csikszentmihalyi (1990; as cited in Bernier, Thienot,

Anxiety Disorders: Acceptance Commitment Therapy
Acceptance Commitment Therapy is a rather new therapy used to treat a variation of psychological
issues ranging from anxiety, PTSD, suicidal tendencies, and more. This treatment has a few
components that make it up; Defusion, Acceptance, present moment, observing self, values, and
committed action. (Todd, J., & Bohart, A. C. 2006) The components of the therapy's meanings are
not complicated, as Todd and Bohart (2006) continue; defusion is the separation of a thought from
the individual's identity, acceptance requires the participant to accept things about themselves that
they were previously pushing away, present moment refers to patients not dwelling in the past or
worrying about the future, instead they focus on the here and now, observing ... Show more content
Al. (2014), researched the effects of ACT on individuals suffering from social phobia. Their study
found that those with social phobia will respond as well to ACT as they do to CBT. The reason for
this may be the similar procedures and processes between these approaches. This study shows that
ACT is an effective treatment for social phobia, though it does not have any perceivable advantage
over CBT. The study was focused on exposure to theses anxious thoughts by forcing participants to
experience their feared experiences. With CBT working with the goal of gaining control over their
fear while ACT worked toward the goal of the participant expressing response that correlates with
their core values. (Craske, Burklund, Wolitzky–Taylor, Vilardaga, et. Al. 2014). This study while not
showing ACT as being superior to other treatments it helps to show the effectiveness ACT in its
effect on Social Phobia. CBT was compared to ACT again in a study conducted by Davies, Niles,
Pittig, Arch, and Craske. They found that ACT outperformed CBT for participants that avoided
hyperventilation more than the other participants. The participants levels of anxiety during tasks
conducted in the laboratory did not predict or moderate the outcome. The findings demonstrated that
pre–treatment physiological and behavioral variables are important targets for guiding future
treatment–matching efforts. (Davies, Niles, Pittig, Arch,

Stress And Interpersonal Disorder
Researchers also suggest that survivors of MST experience difficulty with emotional regulation and
identity, which may suggest more complex traumatic experiences for these survivors (Bell, Dardis,
Vento, & Street, 2017). Research shows that diagnosis of personality disorders for the population of
veterans that have had experiences with MST, but this may be indicative of trauma experienced in
early childhood (Bell, Dardis, Vento, & Street, 2017). Bell, Dardis, Vento, and Street (2017) claim
that after taking childhood and other adult interpersonal trauma into consideration, MST continued
to be a predictor of MST in a sample of female veterans for symptomology more closely related to
complex trauma. Males survivors of MST have reported ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Finally, the military's deep sense of personal control and strength can have many survivors of MST
questioning their personal identity with these traits after the incident(s) of MST and these thoughts
can be amplified is survivors of MST are labeled as weak (Bell, Dardie, Vento, & Street, 2017).
Current Treatments and Policy The research shows that veterans and service members exposed to
MTS are at greater risk of developing PTSD, which has influenced the Veterans Affairs
Administration to develop programs to assist survivors of MST (Holliday, Williams, Bird, Mullen,
and Suris, 2015). The Veterans Affairs Administration currently offers treatment to any service
member that reports that they were a victim of MST (Katz, 2016). The Veterans Affairs
Administration currently employs several evidenced base models to treatment survivors of MST
including: Prolonged exposure therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Eye Movement
Desensitization Reprocessing, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (Katz, 2016). Prolonged
Exposure therapy (PE) has been shown to be an effective model for treating veterans with PTSD
(Goodson, Helstrom, Marino, & Smith, 2017). Dropout rates for treatment with PE range from 16 to
44%, with a rate of approximately 30–37% for veterans that receive the full scope of the treatment
that do not respond to the treatment (Goodson, Helstrom, Marino, & Smith, 2017). A number of
studies

Use of Prayer and Scripture in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Use of Prayer and Scripture in Cognitive–Behavioral Therapy
Liberty University
Use of Prayer and Scripture in Cognitive Behavior–Therapy
Summary
Use of Prayer and Scripture in Cognitive–Behavior Therapy can be found in the Journal of
Psychology and Christianity. The author, Stan Yang–Tan, covers the apposite use of applying prayer
and scripture to the 30–year–old process of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) (p.101). With an
array of psychological disorders, the availability of treatments is generous. However, CBT is
methodically supported for the treatment of many psychological disorders. Through a purposeful
integration of morality, Yang–Tan illustrates the life–changing power of prayer ... Show more
My interest in researching how to Implicitly Integrate prayer and scripture in therapy peaked upon
realizing the explicit integration appears to be more approachable. I do not want to limit my own
competency, nor the benefit of the client. Gaining knowledge and skill in applying a method that is
not as commonly used as Explicit Integration Therapy opens the window to use subtle biblical
emphasis without the client feeling bombarded or perturbed.
Application
In a counseling career, I intend to rely on God as the sole means for guidance and understanding
from the author of understanding, guidance, and counseling. Although I plan to use more explicit
integration, I will always start the session with a new client by assessing the client and determining
the necessity of prayer and scripture. Upon establishing the history, faith, spiritual practices,
problems, and goals, I will take into account all information, and choose an approach suitable for the
client. Although prayer and scripture offer healing and understanding, it is not necessary to use in
each session.
I would love to openly offer to use prayer and scripture through Explicit Integration, as this method
is more aligned with direct healing and application from God. I want to help identify the exact needs
of clients and seek the supplemental scripture to help work through the given circumstances. For
instance, a client may need to find the balance of taking

Comparing A Brief Self As Context Exercise Control Based...
Comparing a Brief Self–as–Context Exercise to Control–Based and Attention Placebo Protocols for
Coping with Induced Pain
Introduction Comparing a Brief Self–as–Context Exercise to Control–Based and Attention Placebo
Protocols for Coping with Induced Pain are two analogue studies that were conducted on college
students.This study was conducted due to the large amounts of research that is dedicated to
understanding commitment therapy and diagnostic approach based on a unified model of human
functioning that promotes psychological flexibility. (ACT; Hayes et al. 2012).It examines the
relative impact of a brief exercise for enhancing the contextual self on pain tolerance by comparing
it to control–based and attention–placebo protocols. It ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
2005). In addition, to the questionnaire scores they also interviewed the participants to ensure that
they had no physical injuries or limitations that would prevent them from submerging their hand in
cold icy water. The researchers then collected four pain–related measurements derived from other
studies (Hayes et al. 1999a , b; Zettle et al. 2005) during each of two presentations of the cold
pressor. Then each protocol provided a rationale about pain and its management that the college
participants listened to through headphones. This was done so that there would be a minimum
amount of possible experimenter bias during the study. During the second experiment similar steps
were taken but at the end of the experiment three additional questions were asked to evaluate what
they participants may have learned. The three questions were:
1. Please describe what you did to cope with pain during the second cold pressor.
2. What suggestions, if any, did you use from the CD presented to you?
3. How were the suggestions useful to you while participating in the second cold pressor?
Results
Means and standard deviations for value and utility scale ratings of protocols
Value
Utility
Protocol
M
SD
M

SD
1. G–SAC
6.15
4.13
6.41
3.62
2. CB
8.00
2.66
8.13
2.91
3. AP
5.80
3.32
6.02
3.74
4.C–SAC
8.68
3.76
7.66
3.76
Statistical Analyses
F
3.51
1.77
p
0.02
0.16
np2
.11
.06
Comparisons
4>3
N/A
Outcome 1 Characteristics of participants in the two studies

Awareness And Mindfulness-Based Approach
suggest that this awareness and mindfulness–based approach, which is supported in ACT therapy
and positive psychology, allows for greater psychological flexibility and strength. If indeed a
mindfulness–based therapy allowed for greater psychological flexibility and strength this would
allow children with Nyctophobia to, after much effort, work through and become superior to their
own fears and anxieties. For example if a particular child who suffers from Nyctophobia feared
monsters in the dark they could use ACT therapy to overcome this fear. First they would have open
discussion and education with their parents about the dark and monsters, then they would find an
exercise to help relieve this anxiety such as meditating and turning the monster

A Helping Hand Case Study
A Helping Hand located in Woodlawn, Maryland is an outpatient treatment center that provides
services to adults 18 years of age or older, who have been addicted to opiate drugs for at least one
year. A Helping Hand's mission is to offer the finest addiction treatment available in a climate that
supports dignity and respect. Qualified staff provides substance abuse treatment in a caring
environment that is designed to promote quality services and optimal outcomes. A Helping Hand
provides the following services; methadone maintenance, intensive outpatient individual counseling,
intensive outpatient group counseling, relapse prevention counseling, medical services, referral
services, urine drug and alcohol screening, and DWI/DUI education classes.

Acceptance And Commitment Therapy: A Qualitative Study
From the results of these studies, we can ascertain implications for social workers who are working
with women in substance use treatment. Through ACT, social workers can help clients learn to
become mindful and accept thoughts, feelings, and emotions which drive their substance use.
Through increased awareness and mindfulness, clients can gain mental flexibility and resiliency
which will decrease emotional distress. Decreased emotional distress can help improve client's
mental flexibility which may help decrease the likelihood of substance use relapse. Practicing
mindfulness and acceptance of thoughts, feelings, and emotions can become easier with practice
which was indicated in research which showed that abstinence levels were greater long–term for
participants who had received ACT treatment (González–Menéndez, 2013). ... Show more content
As noted earlier, the effects of ACT may be more effective long–term and thus ACT may be a good
modality for social workers who are operating from a harm reduction stance (González–Menéndez,
2013; Lanza et al., 2014; Villagrá et al., 2013). Harm reduction "calls for the non–judgmental, non–
coercive provision of services and resources to people who use drugs" (Principles of Harm
Reduction, n.d.). For social workers who may be working from a harm reduction stance, being able
to help clients accept their thoughts, feelings, and emotions and engage in mindfulness can help
clients work towards abstinence on their own

Anorexia Nervos A Case Study Summary
Berman, Boutelle and Crow (2009) conducted an experiment in which they investigated the positive
effects of acceptance and commitment therapy to treat patients who were treated for Anorexia
Nervosa in the past. Participants received several therapy sessions and interviews to determine
whether they met the criteria for anorexia nervosa. The participants communicated with their family
members throughout the experiment. Overall, the participants showed improvements in terms of the
reduction of Anorexia symptoms. Fluoxetine may also take part in reducing the relapse for the
symptoms of anorexia nervosa. A Study conducted by Duvvuri et al. (2012) describes such
phenomena. In their research, Duvvuri and his colleagues (2012) uses twins who are malnourished
due to ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
This means that the treatment with fluoxetine did not prove to be hundred percent effective in this
case. Barbarich et al. (2003) also conducted an experiment to show the impact of fluoxetine in
treating anorexic individuals. In their experiment, Barbarich and her colleagues (2003) wanted to
show whether adding other nutritional supplements such as fatty acid along with fluoxetine would
increase the effects of fluoxetine in terms of treating anorexia nervosa. The treatments went on for
three to six months. Overall, there were no significant difference and the fatty acid did not increase
the effects of fluoxetine (Barbarich et al., 2003). Moreover, anorexic individuals tend to deny their
condition. To find an effective treatment of AN, Clarke et al. (2014) hypothesized that, subjects
receiving acceptance and commitment Therapy would show more improvements than any other
treatments. The participants attended weekly sessions and performed several tasks. The tasks
involved mindfulness exercises which helped the participants to gain different perspectives on their

Culturally Adapted Acceptance And Commitment Therapy For...
CULTURALLY ADAPTED ACCEPTANCE AND COMMITMENT THERAPY FOR TREATING
DEPRESSION AMONG LATINO ADULTS by Lucerito E. Ruiz Ramirez, M.S. A Dissertation
Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree Doctor of Psychology
UNIVERSITY OF LA VERNE College of Arts and Sciences Psychology Department Month and
year dissertation is completed Copyright © (year submitted) Lucerito E. Ruiz Ramirez All Rights
Reserved CULTURALLY ADAPTED ACCEPTANCE AND COMMITMENT THERAPY FOR
TREATING DEPRESSION AMONG LATINO ADULTS by Lucerito E. Ruiz Ramirez, M.S. has
been approved Month and year of dissertation defense DISSERTATION COMMITTEE
___________________________________________, Committee Chair Jerry L. Kernes, Ph.D.
___________________________________________, Committee Member Ngoc Bui, Ph.D.
___________________________________________, Committee Member Jennifer C. S. Chen,
Psy.D. ACCEPTED: ___________________________________________, Psy.D. Program Chair
Jerry L. Kernes, Ph.D. ________________________________________________________
PENDING, Ph.D. Date Dean, College of Arts and Sciences ABSTRACT PENDING Dedication will
go here. Flush left if exceeds 1 line. ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS PENDING "Epigraph goes here in
quotation marks" Reference for the quote goes here TABLE OF CONTENTS CHAPTER Page I.

Therapeutic Community Practice Model
What is it called (e.g. Anti–Oppressive Practice) Odyssey house uses a few practice models such as
psychosocial and social learning models the most predominate and original model used by the
organisation is the Therapeutic community practice model it was initially based on an abstinence
based practice model however due to government legislation and funding requirements it does also
support harm minimisation practices which include the clean needle exchange program,
pharmacotherapy etc. How is it defined? Therapeutic practice focuses on the psychological,
emotional, behavioural, educational and environmental development of substance abusers it uses
cognitive behavioural theories in assisting clients with addiction to abstain from using drug and
alcohol it does this by addressing the underlying issues users have that lead to substance abuse ...
Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
youth housing intake) Clinical review is essentially where the therapeutic care model comes in to
practice clinical staff from different services come together to discuss client wants and needs and are
able to get a broader picture of the clients life, discuss triggers and thought process on recovery
during these meetings clinicians discuss what supports clients have and what more they could offer
they focus on clients strengths based practices from here clients are referred to linked in services and
out of scope. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the framework as experienced on placement
The strengths of the therapeutic care model is that it streamlines services for clients by having one
central intake line it reduces waiting list times instead of having clients visit multiple sights with no
communication between each other and having the same person referred on to the same agency
multiple times taking up space on lists the therapeutic model has proven more effective in assisting
clients to get clean and stay

The Pros And Cons Of Cognitive Therapy
Theory
The definition of cognitive relates to the activity that goes on within the mind, such as thoughts,
perception, and memory (Cognitive, n.d.), and behavior is understood as the manner that a person
handles their acts (Behavior, n.d.). Cognitive therapy (CT) focuses on how the processes that happen
within the mind and connects them with the physical symptoms that occur, and help to prove the
role that thoughts play in behavior. (Kingdon & Dimech, 2008) The focus of behavioral therapy is to
exclude unwanted behaviors and strengthen and reinforce beneficial behaviors (Cherry, 2017). So,
when the two are combined together, the two are looking at how a person's mindset can shape the
way that they act, which is what cognitive behavioral therapy is about. Cognitive – behavioral
therapy (CBT) began in the 1960s through Dr. Aaron T. Beck, and is now the most common studied
form of psychotherapy (Hoffman, Asnaani, Vonk, Sawyer, & Fang, 2012). This form of therapy has
also been proven that when handling any disorder that can experience an episode that through this
therapy it can help prevent another episode from reoccurring (Hoffman, Asnaani, Vonk, Sawyer, &
Fang, 2012). Through this process, it will allow the patient to see that they are in charge of their
behaviors and thoughts. It also allows them to realize when there is a chance of a relapse occurring,
so that way they know how to help prevent themselves from not having control of their thoughts and
behaviors.
So,

Four Core Practices Of DBT
DBT is a type of treatment that therapists typically offer after other techniques have failed, because
DBT is an intensive treatment option (Valentine et al., 2015) Standard DBT includes "multiple
modes of treatment, including weekly individual therapy, weekly group skills training, and as–
needed phone coaching to address skill and motivational problems (Valentine et al., 2015) During
these sessions, therapists focus on four core components: problem solving, validation, and dialectics
(Pomerantz, 2014). These four core practices of DBT are essential in teaching a person to "reduce
dysfunctional behavior and facilitate the adoption of new behavioral, emotional and thinking
patterns" (Valentine et al., 2015) A recent study analyzed the use of dialectical behavior therapy
skills as a stand alone–treatment for GAD (Valentine et al., 2015) Researchers identified 17 different
trials employing a treatment that included DBT skills training and ultimately learned that the use of
DBT as a stand–alone ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
This disorder is characterized by feelings of excessive worry and anxiety on a daily basis. These
feelings may be so debilitating that these people may seek treatment from a psychologist to help
reduce their symptoms. A few treatment options a psychologist may choose for their client include:
cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) which focuses on identifying, understanding and changing
thinking and behavior patterns; acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) which uses strategies of
acceptance, commitment and change and lastly, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) which uses
techniques for emotional regulation. These three styles of therapy are the most prominent and
commonly practiced in treating generalized anxiety disorder (Andreescu et al., 2014) Regardless of
which technique is selected it is clear that all of the treatment options available can help increase a
person's quality of

Counseling, Cognitive And Behavioral Therapies
Introduction
Counseling is a therapy that involves communication using a variety of methods. Verbal, nonverbal,
and written are some of the ways to communicate during counseling. Counseling allows a person to
share their feelings, thoughts and problems to another (a counselor) in a dependable and confidential
environment. Normally the counselor empathizes with the clients. Many types of counseling are
evident depending on the type of problem one has. Counseling usually involves the psychology,
therefore, can be termed as psychological therapy. One of the psychological therapies is behavioral
therapy. Behavioral therapy involves behaviors and cognitions. Apparently, cognitive and behavioral
therapies are based on the thinking of the individual and on the way the individuals behave.
Cognitive and behavioral therapies are of importance and that is the area of my specialization.
Type 1
Cognitive and behavioral therapies are subdivided severally. They include acceptance and
commitment therapy (ACT), behavioral therapy, cognitive analytic therapy (CAT), cognitive
behavioral therapy (CBT) and cognitive therapy. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a
behavioral analysis that uses strategies like mindfulness and acceptance to aid in increasing
flexibility of psychology. Cognitive analytic therapy (CAT) is a form that tries to assemble ideas
together from both analytic and cognitive into integrative models. CAT helps the client understand
the reasons as to why they behave

Acceptance And Commitment Therapy ( Act )
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a relatively new form of therapy derived from a
combination of cognitive and behaviour interventions, which are constructed on empirical
evaluation of communication and cognitions (Hayes, 2004).
The aim of this essay is to analyse and discuss ACT and its relevance as a psychological
intervention. To do this insight into the process of ACT will be provided, the core values that
promote resilience in ACT will be critically reviewed, and the goals of ACT in a counselling setting
will be identified and reflected upon. Through insight provided and the evaluation and analysis of
ACT, an informed opinion will be constructed as to its usefulness and effectiveness as a
psychological intervention.
Although ACT emerged in the 1980s, it wasn't till 2005 that awareness and its popularity grew
(Bach, & Moran, 2008). ACT was initially constructed as a substitute to the more classical forms of
psychotherapy (Flaxman, Blackledge, & Bond, 2011). Rather than focusing on the reduction of
indifferent cognitions and emotions, which is a primary focus in psychotherapies such as cognitive
behavioural therapy (CBT), ACT looks at the possibility of increasing effective and progressive
behaviours (Flaxman, et al., 2011). The contrast however between ACT and a psychotherapy such as
CBT is that the therapist doesn't focus on the presence or altering the unlikable emotions and
thoughts of individuals, however they do in fact decrease through the ACT process

My Current Therapy Practicum At Hartgrove Hospital
My current therapy practicum at Hartgrove Hospital is primarily focused on Cognitive–Behavioral
Therapy but as I have been working with clients over the past 6 months, I have experienced some
personal and professional discrepancies between the theory of CBT and how I conceptualize clients
and my role as a therapist. The hospital emphasizes the teaching of coping skills, which in line with
CBT has the client learning new ways of handling their emotions. While I agree that teaching coping
skills, cognitive restructuring, etc. are important for many clients, I have consistently felt like
something was missing. I have been exposed to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
briefly in the past during my classes and during a didactic at practicum, but I have not done an in–
depth examination of how it differs from CBT and what its theoretical and philosophical bases are. I
wanted to take this paper as an opportunity to learn more about a therapy that may fit better with
how I work with clients and how I view my role as a therapist.
An Overview of ACT In the early development of ACT, Hayes and his first doctoral student, Zettle,
were interested in the role of language in clinical conditions, which was an important part of
Skinner's radical behaviorism (Cullen, 2008). This work occurred in parallel to when Hayes was
developing "comprehensive distancing," which essentially emphasized that attempts to control
thoughts and feelings are often counter–productive and make the problem

The Practice Of Acceptance Commitment Therapy
Susanne Carlson THRT 2307 Janice Spencer October 28th 2014 Finding Life: The Practice of
Acceptance Commitment Therapy in the Recovery Process Acceptance Commitment Therapy
(ACT) is a recently developed modality of psychological treatment with the purpose of supporting
individuals through the process of change. ACT works around the assumption that many
psychological difficulties faced by individuals, are rooted in a need to avoid internal experiences
(Ekern, 2012). By working on developing a self that is separate from thoughts and emotions, it is
thought that an individual can come to realize a more positive self–perception (Ekern, 2012).
Focusing on values and committing to action can lead an individual towards a meaningful life
(Ekern, 2012). This modality is currently used to assist in the treatment of a variety of clinical
mental disorders, and has recently been introduced into treating those living with eating disorders
(Ekern, 2012). Acceptance Commitment Therapy is a valuable resource in helping individuals
commit to healthier behaviours while also developing a more meaningful life. There are numerous
types of ACT, with each one carrying a slightly different focus. Ekern (2012), states that awareness
management focuses on an individual's experience of the present moment. She says that this can
work in combination with mindfulness, which is a way to observe thoughts and feelings without
making judgments of them. Cognitive shifting is another main type of ACT,

The Act Model Is The Action Or Behavior ( Experiential...
However, it is the action or behavior (experiential avoidance) that leads to the problem.
Furthermore, according to the ACT model, when clients try and control these unwanted thoughts
and emotions they actually only increase their difficulty (sadness about feeing unwanted or
worthless). The ACT model suggests that the very effort to control ones' emotions and thoughts
increases the likelihood of failure and consequently increasing their avoidance. Therefore, according
to this model therapist help the client to refocus their efforts. Rather than focusing on escaping their
unwanted thoughts and feelings to work towards acceptance. This acceptance could change the
clients perpetuating cycle of ruminating on their painful depressive thoughts that they have become
fused to. This disruption in their ruminative thought pattern has the potential to allow the client to
begin to orient their thoughts through observation and awareness. Moreover, the ACT model then
aims to orient the client back to their values and help clients to allow more adaptive responses and
thoughts in and reduce their stress and depressive thoughts (Walser, et al., 2015; Walser, Chartier, &
Sears, 2011). According to the ACT model for depression therapists begin by gathering background
information and to understand how the client orients them self, meaning language that they use
about themselves and about their suffering. During the beginning phase of treatment clients could be
asked to complete a BDI–II. Next

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Intervention Model
Part # 2: Identification of Appropriate Intervention Cognitive Behavior Theory (CBT) and the A–B–
C Model The main idea behind CBT is that if you can change the way that you think you can change
the way that you feel. Additionally, if you can change the way that you feel then you can change
your behavior. There is no single definition for CTB which is based on the behavioral conditioning
theories, learning theory and cognitive theory. The foundations of CBT can be traced back to the
early 20th century. These include the work done by: 1. Ivan Pavlov – Respondent or classical
conditioning 2. Thorndike, Hull, Watson and B.F. Skinner – Operant conditioning The cornerstones
of most recently developed behavior modification therapies include: ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
Exposure therapy 4. Modeling therapy 5. Problem solving therapy 6. Thought stopping therapy 7.
Stress inoculation therapy 8. Acceptance and commitment therapy 9. Mindfulness–based cognitive
therapy Acceptance and mindfulness are controversial new therapies which are based on Buddhism
and calls for respect of experiencing the life situation without judgment or evaluation. CBT does not
ignore the past or the future. However, the focus of clinical treatment in on the present. CBT
emphases less focus on the painful thoughts, feelings and experiences. The primary focus is on
practicing acceptance of any given discomfort while simultaneously aiming for positive goals in life.
CBT is evidence based and uses empirically validated interventions while employing a variety of
behavior modification therapies. One such effective therapy modality is called the A–B–C Model.
The A–B–C Model Developed by Albert Ellis in the mid–1980s, The A–B–C model says that the
activating event (A) precipitates a belief about the event (B) which leads a person to experience
consequences (C). Ellis also believed that people tend to be irrational and identified 12 common
beliefs which he called cognitive distortions. Here are a few

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Definition
Tan's (2007) article, "Use of Prayer and Scripture in Cognitive–Behavioral Therapy," is about using
prayers and scriptures in Cognitive–Behavioral Therapy (CBT). According to Tan (2007),
Cognitive–Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the utmost empirically supported treatments (ESTs),
(p.101). The article noted that a recent placebo–controlled study of behavioral activation, cognitive
therapy and antidepressant medication of paroxetine of 241 adults that suffered from major
depressive disorder showed that behavioral activation is as successful as antidepressant medication
and more successful than cognitive therapy in treatment for severely depressed adults, (Tan, 2007, p
101). Tan (2007) gives an overview on behavioral therapy and its three categories,

A Master 's Degree Of Clinical And Mental Health Counseling
Credentials I hold a Master's degree of Clinical and Mental Health Counseling (2015) from
Immaculata University. My undergraduate degree in Psychology with a concentration in Abnormal
Psychology was earned at Kean University. I am licensed in the state of Pennsylvania as a Licensed
Professional Counselor and Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor.
Professional Experience I have been a licensed counselor for the past 3 years. I have experience in
the areas and treatments of depression, anxiety disorders, acute psychosis, emotional deregulation,
grief, and bi–polar disorder. In addition to, I hold a certification and training from Holcomb
Behavioral Health System for clinical intervention with children and adolescents experiencing
bullying in schools.
Professional Affiliations I have a professional membership in the American Counseling Association
(ACA) and the American Mental Health Counselors Association (AMHCA). I am also a member of
the International Honor Society in Psychology, Psi Chi and the Beta Mu chapter of Chi Sigma Iota
Counseling Honor Society.
Counseling and Therapeutic Process Counseling is a safe, accepting, and comfortable way for you,
the client, to share personal problems and stories. Counseling can help with self–awareness, self–
acceptance, and growth for the client. Clients come to therapy because they want change, solve a
problem, or bring a healthier balance to life. Clients should be aware that despite the fact that
counseling can be fun

The Five Major Psychotherapy Theoretical Frameworks

Recommended

Recommended

More Related Content

More from Amber Butler

More from Amber Butler (20)

Recently uploaded

Recently uploaded (20)

The Five Major Psychotherapy Theoretical Frameworks