ED 672: Theory Toolbox

Adlerian therapy focuses on understanding an individual’s lifestyle and social interests, examining past experiences and family dynamics, and encouraging goal-setting and positive behavior changes to overcome perceived barriers and foster a sense of belonging and purpose. Source

Behavior therapy is a set of therapeutic interventions that aim to eliminate maladaptive, self-defeating behaviors and replace them with healthy, adaptive ones. Source

Rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), introduced by Albert Ellis, is an action-oriented approach focused on helping people deal with their irrational beliefs and learning how to manage their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors more healthily and realistically. Source

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a structured, goal-oriented counseling approach to help people learn to identify and change destructive or disturbing thought patterns that negatively influence their behavior and emotions.

Reality Therapy (based on Choice Theory) is a form of therapy that aims to help people with unmet needs, set goals, problem-solve, and create more meaningful connections with others.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) teaches people skills for managing intense emotions, coping with challenging situations, and improving their relationships. Source

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an action-oriented approach to helping clients stop avoiding negative thoughts and emotions. Instead, it helps clients fully experience and accept present-moment thoughts and emotions to work toward positive change.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) combines elements of mindfulness practice and cognitive behavioral therapy to help individuals develop greater awareness and acceptance of their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Source

Schema therapy aims to gradually replace maladaptive schemas with healthier ones so that a person experiences less emotional distress. Source

Person-centered therapy, also called client-centered therapy, identifies that each person has the capacity and desire for personal growth and change. Source

Narrative therapy centers people as experts in their own lives and focuses on separating a person from their problem.

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is a short-term, goal-focused, evidence-based therapeutic approach that focuses on solutions rather than on the problems that brought clients to seek therapy.