This paper is an exercise in reflection and self-examination. There are no right or wrong responses in terms of the theories that you pick that most resonate with you or not. Reflect on the theories we have studied so far and think about your personal beliefs, values, and assumptions. Which theory or theories fit for you? Use this assignment as an exercise in self-exploration.
Use the following questions as an outline to your paper:
Construct your theoretical Orientation based on the information provided in the course.
feminist therpy
psychoanalytic therapy
adlerian therapy
existenial therapy
person centered therapy
gestalt therapy
behavior therapy
choice theory/reality therapy
How do the various theories fit with your personal values?
What life experiences shaped the beliefs and values that lead you to prefer one theory over another? Which theory fits best with your personality and style of interaction?
Which theory or theories most closely matches your own belief about how change occurs in peoples’ lives? Which is most important: changing emotion, cognition, or behavior?
What multicultural implications align most significantly with your orientation?
Working with your intended population, is there a theory or theories that fit better? Why?
What have you learned about yourself through studying the various counseling theories?