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Essay / Importance of Counseling Theory and Practice
The Counseling Theory and Practice course exposed me to various theories and approaches used by counselors. Learning about the different goals, key concepts, relationships, and techniques gave me insight into the different ways advisors work with students. Additionally, it encouraged me to start thinking about my own theoretical framework and theories that appeal to me. As a counselor, it is important that I select theories that align with both my values and beliefs so that I can more effectively meet the needs of my students. As I progress as a school counselor, I will likely develop an integrated theoretical approach to counseling. There are many parts and elements I can take from different counseling theories to tailor an approach that works for me. In this article, I discuss three theories with research and how I plan to implement the techniques as a counselor. Adlerian Theory Alfred Adler's childhood had an impact on the formation of his theoretical approach. Adler had a difficult childhood between losing his younger brother and becoming seriously ill at a young age. However, he did not let these events influence or determine the outcome of his future. Adler attended school at the University of Vienna majoring in neurology and psychiatry, where he later became one of three major contributors to the psychodynamic approach to therapy. He eventually formed his own theoretical approach called "individual psychology", based on a holistic view of the person. According to Adlerian Therapy, “Where we come from is not as important as where we are striving to go. » (Page 103). Although our childhood represents a large part of human development, we are both the creators and creations of our own lives and we are about to realize that our earliest memories have been proven correct. .In classroom orientation, I will lead an activity that encourages students to help them recognize their strengths and feel valued. According to our text, encouragement Counseling Theory and Practice (2013) gives students a sense of hope and helps them see the possibilities that their lives offer them. I begin the activity by asking my students to trace one of their hands on a piece of paper using a marker and label it with their name. Each student would begin passing their drawn hand around the classroom for each student to list a positive attribute of the student or say words of encouragement. Once the student reads their hand at the end of the activity, their personal strengths will be highlighted and they will have that hand to hold on to when they feel discouraged..