I watched the Case Conceptualization and Theory discussion video, which helped me reevaluate my knowledge and make new conclusions. I have assessed my current understanding of the recently learned topics by pausing the video and reflecting on my own thoughts about the therapies, after which I compared them to what was expressed in the discussion. As a result, I made several significant conclusions regarding the material.
I have primarily focused on comprehending the differences between solution-focused therapy (SFT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and psychodynamic therapy. As such, SFT is a quick, goal-oriented kind of psychotherapy in which the client is assisted in discovering, clarifying, and implementing their solutions to difficulties. Setting clear, precise, and achievable goals is a substantial focus of the process. CBT is predicated on discovering practical answers to problems that are now giving the patient misery. CBT focuses on detecting negative thinking patterns in life and using direct action to change those troublesome behaviors and attitudes. Finally, self-reflection and self-examination are used in psychodynamic therapy to uncover the psychological underpinnings of emotional pain. Psychodynamic treatment also focuses on recognizing patterns and interpersonal interactions and encouraging free associations.
Hence, psychodynamic treatment focuses on emotions, whereas CBT and SFT concentrate on thinking and beliefs. SFT varies from CBT in a number of ways as well. Psychodynamic therapy is a type of psychoanalysis that aims to understand one’s current condition and behavior by relating them to events in the past. However, CBT and SFT primarily concentrate on the present day. Next, SFT spends less time defining the actual problem and instead focuses on potential solutions, whereas CBT demands a precise, thorough statement of the problem. Finally, CBT views change as a relatively short process, whereas psychodynamic therapy views change as a lengthy process. The goal of psychodynamic therapy is for the patient to acquire insight, whereas the purpose of CBT is for the client to transform.
Furthermore, the difference in purpose and use of the described approaches has made me wonder whether the different theories could be used simultaneously. I decided that although the theories imply other techniques and methodologies, their benefits might be helpful for dealing with multiple psychological problems of the client. I believe that since psychology is a vast area with much to learn about individual mental health disorders, it is hard to declare with absolute certainty that one type of therapy is superior to another.
A much more practical approach is to view the mentioned treatment options as alternative strategies to mitigate and control present conditions or actions that, when used together, can yield a more effective outcome. Thus, some techniques are better suited to various people, but that does not decrease the relevance of psychological approaches to well-being. Moreover, the most crucial aspect of receiving mental health treatment is selecting a style of therapy tailored to the customer’s specific requirements. Therapy assists persons who get therapy in ways suitable for the condition, mental disorder, or trauma addressed, which does not prohibit multiple approaches.