Discusses how the primary emphasis on the individual raises for counselors the possibility of a kind of therapeutic individualism inimical to social commitment and the common good. Examines importance placed on social commitment in counseling and the influence of therapeutic individualism. Proposes that the balance between the individual and…

Considers inquiry into the nature and process of change to be fundamental to the domains of counseling and psychotherapy. Clarifies distinction between first- and second-order change. Proposes that rationalist approaches to counseling are guided by first-order assumptions about change whereas constructivist approaches are based on second-order…

Offers reaction to McBride and Martin's article on eclecticism in counseling. Acknowledges hierarchy of eclectic practices presented by McBride and Martin provides a refined depiction of the state of eclectic practice in the field of mental health counseling. However, strong disagreement is expressed with unenthusiastic attitude toward…

This paper reviews current research concerning psychosocial adaptation to chronic illness and disability and presents recommendations for future development of theories in this area. First, those who craft or adapt theories must use nondisabling, respectful, and empowering language. Rehabilitation professionals must avoid terms that connote…

Clinical assimilation of the various methods of family therapy, while maintaining an analytic, self-psychology perspective gave rise to Complementary Narcissism's novel system's perspective of the individual in context. While Complementary Narcissism Theory is applicable to all families, its interventions are most effective with those families who…

Richard Bandler and John Grinder developed neuro-linguisitc programming (NLP) after observing "the magical skills of potent psychotherapists" Frederick Perls, Virginia Satir, and Milton Erikson. They compiled the most effective techniques for building rapport, gathering data, and influencing change in psychotherapy, offering them only as…

Shows the nature of psychotherapy as a moral enterprise through an examination of two views of theory, i.e., they either contain moral values or require them as assumptions necessary for practice. Briefly discusses implications for the teaching and presentation of forms of psychotherapy. (BH)

Knowing, loving, and willing are identified as the basic capacities for developing human potential. These three faculties are briefly defined and several dynamic models to describe their inter-relationship and role in developing potential presented. These capacities and models are further explored in relation to the fourteen learner-centered…

Presents an interview with Jay Haley, an acclaimed pioneering therapist and master teacher. He is one of the founders of family therapy and has written 19 books on various aspects of therapy. (GCP)

Proposes that concepts of causality and power are compatible with systemic paradigm based on cybernetics of Ashby rather than that of Bateson. Criticizes Bateson's repudiation of causality and power; addresses related Batesonian biases against "quantity" and "logic." Contrasts relevant aspects of Ashby's cybernetic theory with…

Offers defense of eclecticism in counseling in response to critique by Ginter (1988) and in response to Kelly's (1988) reply to that critique. Distinguishes technical eclecticism from theoretical eclecticism. Employs a general systems theory to conceptualize the divergence among the various theories in a way that suggests that a synthesis of the…

Underscores differences among unsystematic eclecticism, theoretical integrationism, and technical eclecticism. Present brief case history to demonstrate how and why combination of theories and smorgasbord conception of eclecticism yields clinical confusion rather than therapeutic precision. Explains why atheoretical or mechanistic procedures must…

Argues integrative and eclectic theorizing and counseling are inevitable and represent progress in field of mental health counseling. Claims more research is required to examine relation of mental health counselor's theorizing and cognitions in counseling to clients' outcomes. Contends understanding of limitations of traditional counseling…

Continues recent debate on the current state of theory and the proper role of eclectic approaches. Presents brief overview of Adaptive Counseling and Therapy/Readiness model as systematic form of eclecticism. Makes argument for matching counseling approach to nature of problem and readiness of the client rather than maintaining a single…