Theoretical Perspective

The selected theoretical perspective drawn from the group work is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which should be used for group counseling. There are several advantages and disadvantages of this proposed theoretical perspective, according to Corey et al. (2018). The first advantage of CBT is that it is an evidence-based and practical approach proposed and used in counseling. According to Corey et al. (2018), CBT is used for a variety of mental illnesses, and it is known to have positive impacts like anxiety, depression, and substance abuse. Therefore, CBT provides confidence that the interventions are based on reliable research. The second advantage is that it is structured and goal-oriented. When used, the psychiatrist will benefit from using an approach that has specific goals, helps clients identify problematic behavior, develops coping strategies, and tracks patient progress (Corey et al., 2018). CBT is also skill-focused, so it is not only aimed at treating mental illness but it can also be used in real-life situations, like fostering long-term coping strategies for members. CBT is time-limited, so it is useful as a short-term intervention that attracts patients who want speedy results. CBT also promotes self-efficacy by encouraging patients to challenge their negative behavior and think of more self-reliant tendencies to manage their challenges independently.

The disadvantages of this theory are a few, though they are of concern. Firstly, this therapy emphasizes cognition and overlooks emotions. The challenge is that the approach can change the thought patterns but fails to address emotional issues, limiting its ability to heal the patient thoroughly. The second challenge is that this approach may be practical, but it does not apply to all clients, especially those clients suffering from severe emotional and unconscious issues (Corey et al., 2018). Therefore, it cannot be used for clients who have trauma and attachment issues. Also, there are cases where some clients may have difficulty coping with the demands of this therapy, explicitly recognizing and challenging irrational thoughts. Those who have serious mental health challenges like low motivation may find it difficult to follow through with CBT because of its structured method. Another disadvantage is that this approach may overlook social and cultural factors. Corey et al. (2018) explain that since this therapy only focuses on individual thoughts and conduct, it overlooks the social, cultural, and economic influences that might affect the mental health of the patient. The therapy can also be mechanical. CBT uses a structured approach to solve problems. As such, it may seem and feel more formulaic and thus become inapplicable to some people, significantly because it limits emotional depth during a therapeutic relationship.

Value of Developing and Integrative Stances

The information collected in the course text and other materials shows that developing an integrative stance from diverse theoretical perspectives is valuable. Firstly, there is value because integrating techniques from various perspectives offers room for a more comprehensive approach to address cognitive and behavioral aspects without overlooking emotional aspects (Leuzinger-Bohleber et al., 2019). The second value is tailoring the techniques to meet each client’s unique needs. Since integrative techniques mean using different techniques that impact differently, the integration will ensure that all the client’s needs are met without leaving gaps. Also, there is value in the integration of techniques because it creates flexibility. Counselors who rigidly use only one theory may not address complex issues. Hence, integrating techniques from multiple methods gives the counselor enough tools to respond to challenges that arise in group therapy in a flexible manner ((Leuzinger-Bohleber et al., 2019). Using different techniques from several approaches is also of value since it addresses the several levels of experience. For instance, a psychiatrist can combine CBT with psychodynamic approaches to explore both unconscious motivations and thought patterns. Another value a therapist can have is that the therapeutic relationship will be improved. Using CBT along with other approaches like Gestalt or person-centered therapy can increase therapeutic relationships since CBT fails to do so.

Difficulties when Integrating Different Models

Even though there are benefits in integrating elements from different theoretical models, challenges accompany it. Firstly, there is a difficulty in having compatible theoretical approaches. It is important to note that various theories have different and opposing views. For example, CBT concerns conscious thoughts, and psychoanalytic methods focus on unconscious processes; hence, using the two may create theoretical incompatibility (Leuzinger-Bohleber et al., 2019). There is also the case of overwhelming clients because using many techniques with different perspectives can confuse clients. The confusion may significantly impact those seeking a clear and structured approach. Patients who encounter techniques that seem to contradict themselves get frustrated and confused. The other difficulty is training and expertise linked to the methods (Leuzinger-Bohleber et al., 2019). Not all counselors have the training and necessary knowledge for each theory. Getting an expert with excellent skills for at least two theories is difficult, so integrating different models is often difficult. There is also the issue of inconsistent focus, where the therapist may shift focus frequently, making it challenging to maintain a coherent treatment direction. This can lead to confusion for the group and the counselor.

References

Corey, M.S., Corey, G. & Corey, C. (2018). Groups: Process and Practice. United           Kingdom: Thomson/Brooks/Cole.

Leuzinger-Bohleber, M., Hautzinger, M., Fiedler, G., Keller, W., Bahrke, U., Kallenbach, L.,       Kaufhold, J., Ernst, M., Negele, A., Schoett, M., Küchenhoff, H., Günther, F., Rüger, B.,            & Beutel, M. (2019). Outcome of Psychoanalytic and Cognitive-Behavioural Long-Term            Therapy with Chronically Depressed Patients: A Controlled Trial with Preferential and           Randomized Allocation. Canadian journal of psychiatry. Revue canadienne de   psychiatrie, 64(1), 47–58. https://doi.org/10.1177/0706743718780340

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Assignment Content

Textbook:

• Groups: Process and Practice
  • Chapter 4

Theoretical Perspective

Please note posts should be written in APA formatting, citing sources, and a minimum of 275, maximum of 500 words.

• Identify you’re a theoretical perspective you are drawn to for group work. What are the advantages and disadvantages of the perspective you identified? Do you see value in developing an integrative stance that draws on concepts and techniques from diverse theoretical perspectives? What are the potential difficulties when integrating elements from different theoretical models?