HSV532_Theories of Alcohol and Drug Counseling 2 (1)

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Nov 24, 2024

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THEORIES OF ALCOHOL AND DRUG COUNSELING 1 Solution Focused vs. Reality Therapy Student Name: Institution Affiliation: Course: Instructor Name: Date:

THEORIES OF ALCOHOL AND DRUG COUNSELING 2 Solution Focused vs. Reality Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy and Reality Therapy are two distinct valuable psychotherapy approaches that are designed to address the complex and nuanced challenges of human psychology and behavior. The two approaches share a common goal which is to facilitate positive change and personal growth to people who seeking help and guidance. However, they diverge significantly in their underlying principles, techniques, and philosophical foundations. In this premise, this assignment seeks to compare and contrast solution focused and reality therapy in terms of their general theoretical concepts, principles, agents of change, stages associated with change, and the role of human service provider. According to Malhotra and Suri (2020) , Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT), sometimes referred to as Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), is a goal-oriented and strengths-based approach to psychotherapy. This therapeutic approach was established in 1980 by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg and was founded on the grounds that individuals have the resources and abilities within themselves to create positive change in their lives. Solution Focused Therapy model emphasizes finding solutions to problems rather than delving on the problems themselves. Some of the key principles and techniques of Solution-Focused Therapy are as follows. As noted by Malhotra and Suri (2020) , Solution Focused Therapy is notably brief and time-limited, with an ultimate aim of bringing meaningful transformation within a concise timeframe. Unlike other therapeutic approaches, this aspect of Solution Focused Therapy makes it particularly well-suited for individuals seeking practical solutions to immediate concerns, as it efficiently directs their focus toward actionable steps. The process of Solution Focused Therapy is inherently client- centered, recognizing clients as experts in their own lives. Therapists collaborate with clients to identify their goals and solutions, steering clear of imposing their own ideas or judgments. This

THEORIES OF ALCOHOL AND DRUG COUNSELING 3 versatility of this approach shines through, mainly because it has proven effective in various settings, encompassing individual therapy, couples counseling, family therapy, and even organizational contexts, where it aids in problem-solving and conflict resolution. On the other hand, Reality Therapy is a therapeutic approach that is centered on personal responsibility and choice as the fundamental factors shaping an individual's behavior and emotional well-being. This theory was established by psychiatrist William Glasser and is grounded in the belief that individuals have the power to make choices that can lead to more fulfilling and satisfying lives. According to Rosidi et al. (2018), central to Reality Therapy is the concept of personal responsibility, where patients are encouraged to recognize their role in their current circumstances and take ownership of their actions and choices. As opposed to traditional therapeutic theories, Reality Therapy mainly focuses on the present and future, avoiding deep exploration of past traumas. Instead, therapists collaborate with their patients to pinpoint what can be done in order to create positive changes. Essentially, therapists in Reality Therapy avoids criticism or blame at all costs, fostering an empathetic environment that encourages clients to explore alternative behaviors. Similar to solution focused therapy, this approach has proven application in a variety of settings, from individual counseling and couples therapy to family dynamics and educational contexts, effectively addressing issues such as addiction, relationship conflicts, impulse control problems, and personal growth. In terms of general theoretical concepts, principles, and agents of change both Solution Focused and Reality Therapy adopt a future-oriented perspective, encouraging patients to picture better futures and set goals. As noted by Desmond et al. (2022), both theories also prioritize the therapeutic relationship, recognizing clients as experts in their lives. However, these two approaches differ significantly in their philosophical foundations. For instance, Solution Focused

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THEORIES OF ALCOHOL AND DRUG COUNSELING 4 Therapy is rooted in a strengths-based and constructivist philosophy, assuming patients possess the resources to find solutions, while Reality Therapy is grounded in Choice Theory, which emphasizes on the personal responsibility for choices and the need for fulfillment. Furthermore, Solution Focused Therapy is normally short-term and focuses on solution-oriented questions and exception-finding, whereas Reality Therapy on the other hand may be both short and long-term, focusing on patients' choices and behaviors. According to Rosidi et al. (2018), in Reality Therapy, patients are guided through the WDEP system to examine their wants, actions, evaluations, and planning, emphasizing the modification of choices to meet needs as the primary agent of change. On the contrary, Solution Focused Therapy focuses on the patients' ability to identify and implement solutions as the primary driver of change. The above differences demonstrate the diverse ways in which these therapies address the complex topic of human psychology and behavior. In terms of stages associated with treatment, Solution Focused Therapy and Reality Therapy differs in their emphasis and approach, which brings about the distinctive nature of both models in terms of their theoretical foundations. For instance, as noted by Malhotra and Suri (2020) , Solution Focused Theory commences with engagement and goal setting, which then fosters a collaborative and empathetic relationship between therapist and the patient. This is then followed by exploration and exception finding with an aim of identifying strengths and resources. The main aim of solution focused therapy is building solution where most of the therapy time is dedicated to generating solutions and steps to achieve the patient's objectives. Eventually, this model culminates in feedback and closure, while focusing on acknowledging progress and reinforcing the patient's capacity to continue implementing solutions independently. On the other hand, the stages of Reality Therapy take a different approach. As noted by

THEORIES OF ALCOHOL AND DRUG COUNSELING 5 Emmelkamp and Meyerbröker (2021) , this approach begins with engagement and assessment, with an emphasis placed on the patient's personal responsibility for their choices. The main focus of this theory is the needs evaluation and planning which entails identifying and prioritizing unmet needs, thereafter, developing plans that are aligned to those needs. Implementation and accountability then follow, emphasizing the patient's responsibility for making more effective choices. The final stage of the theory entails a review and follow-up, where progress is periodically reviewed, and adjustments are made as needed to help the client continue making better choices in line with their needs. In terms of similarities, the two therapeutic approaches prioritize the establishment of a strong therapeutic relationship, while emphasizing that a trusting and collaborative alliance is essential for effective therapy. The two approaches are also inherently client-centered, valuing the patient's expertise in their own life and decisions, which shapes the therapeutic process. In terms of creating a positive change to promote recovery through the concepts of theories, both have some similarities and differences. In terms of similarities, both theories are centered on the patient’s ability to make choices and decisions that can lead to positive change and recovery. Furthermore, as Desmond et al. (2022) averse, both theories acknowledge the importance of personal responsibility and accountability for one's actions and behaviors. Additionally, both approaches value the therapeutic relationship and the collaborative effort between the therapist and client. In terms of differences, Solution Focused Therapy is rooted in a strengths-based and solution-focused philosophy, which tends to emphasize on the identification and implementation of solutions to problems. The theory explores what is already working and builds upon those strengths to achieve recovery. In contrast, Reality Therapy is grounded on Choice Theory and is focused on identifying and fulfilling basic needs as the core driver of

THEORIES OF ALCOHOL AND DRUG COUNSELING 6 behavior. According to Emmelkamp and Meyerbröker (2021) , the theory emphasizes on helping individuals make better choices to meet their needs more effectively, with the ultimate goal of achieving personal satisfaction and recovery. In terms of approaching obstacles in the treatment process, both theories exhibit some similarities and differences. For instance, both theories share the view that obstacles are an inherent part of the therapeutic journey. As such, they acknowledge that individuals seeking therapy may encounter barriers and challenges in their pursuit of positive change and personal growth. In both approaches, therapists and clients work collaboratively to identify and address these obstacles. According to Desmond et al. (2022), the therapeutic relationship in both solution focused therapy and reality therapy offers a supportive and empathetic environment where patients can openly discuss their challenges without fear of judgment. In terms of differences, Solution Focused Therapy encourage patients to shift their attention away from the obstacles to potential solutions. The therapeutic conversation revolves around identifying strengths and resources that can be harnessed to overcome barriers. Therapists of Solution Focused Therapy often use solution-oriented questions to guide clients in reframing obstacles as opportunities for growth. On the other hand, Reality Therapy focuses on the personal responsibility and accountability for one's choices and actions. According to Emmelkamp and Meyerbröker (2021) , when patients encounter obstacles in Reality Therapy, the therapy process involves a more in- depth exploration of how their choices may have contributed to those challenges. Summing up, in both Solution-Focused Therapy and Reality Therapy, human service providers play a vital role in fostering a collaborative and empathetic therapeutic relationship. They create a safe and non-judgmental environment where patients can openly express their thoughts and feelings. Both approaches embrace a client-centered perspective, recognizing the

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THEORIES OF ALCOHOL AND DRUG COUNSELING 7 patients as the ultimate authority in their life, and human service providers actively engage in dialogue to understand and prioritize the client's goals and needs. Additionally, as noted by Desmond et al. (2022), both theories emphasize a strengths-based approach, with human service providers assisting clients in identifying and leveraging their inherent strengths and resources to facilitate positive change. Goal facilitation is another shared role, as human service providers’ work alongside patients to set clear and achievable objectives, offering guidance and support in developing strategies to reach those goals. However, differences emerge in their philosophical foundations and approaches to obstacles. According to Bakar and Suranata (2020) , Solution Focused Therapy providers focuses on solutions, while encouraging patients to reframe challenges positively, while Reality Therapy providers emphasize personal responsibility and choice evaluation, while guiding clients to make more effective decisions in response to obstacles. These variations highlight the unique aspects of each approach and provide clients with diverse options for addressing their unique needs and circumstances. In conclusion, as discussed in this assignment Solution-Focused Therapy and Reality Therapy share similarities in their emphasis on collaboration, client-centeredness, strengths-based perspectives, and goal facilitation. However, they also differ significantly in their philosophical foundations, approaches to obstacles, and the role of the service provider.

THEORIES OF ALCOHOL AND DRUG COUNSELING 8 References Bakar, A. Y. A., & Suranata, K. (2020). Application of solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) to help clients with anxiety issues. Bisma The Journal of Counseling , 4 (1), 16-20. Desmond, K. J., Mchugh, S. A., & Bellinger, K. L. (2022). Individual Counseling for School Counselors. Foundations of School Counseling: Innovations in Professional Practice , 125. Emmelkamp, P. M., & Meyerbröker, K. (2021). Virtual reality therapy in mental health. Annual review of clinical psychology , 17 , 495-519. Malhotra, R., & Suri, S. (2020). Efficacy of Solution Focused Brief Therapy on Self-concept of Bullied Adolescents. International Journal of Psychosocial Rehabilitation , 24 (05), 3930-3936. Rosidi, R., Sutoyo, A., & Purwanto, E. (2018). Effectiveness of reality therapy group counseling to increase the self-esteem of students. Jurnal Bimbingan Konseling , 7 (1), 12-16.

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