COMPARING HUMANISTIC-EXISTENTIAL PSYCHOTHERAPY WITH OTHER APPROACHES
RESOURCES
Be sure to review the Learning Resources before completing this activity. Click the weekly resources link to access the resources.
WEEKLY RESOURCES
To prepare:
· Review the humanistic-existential psychotherapy videos in this week’s Learning Resources.
· Reflect on humanistic-existential psychotherapeutic approaches.
· Then, select another psychotherapeutic approach to compare with humanistic-existential psychotherapy. The approach you choose may be one you previously explored in the course or one you are familiar with and especially interested in.
THE ASSIGNMENT
In a 2- to 3-page paper, address the following:
· Briefly describe humanistic-existential psychotherapy and the second approach you selected.
· Explain at least three differences between these therapies. Include how these differences might impact your practice as a PMHNP.
· Focusing on one video you viewed, explain why humanistic-existential psychotherapy was utilized with the patient in the video and why it was the treatment of choice. Describe the expected potential outcome if the second approach had been used with the patient.
· Support your response with specific examples from this week’s media and at least three peer-reviewed, evidence-based sources. Explain why each of your supporting sources is considered scholarly. Attach the PDFs of your sources.
RESOURCES
· Grande, T. (2019, January 9). Theories of counseling – Existential therapyLinks to an external site. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YvAvc2aWup0
· PsychotherapyNet. (2009, June 29). James Bugental live case consultation psychotherapy videoLinks to an external site. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zl8tVTjdocI
· ThinkingallowedTV. (2010, September 20). James Bugental: Humanistic psychotherapy (excerpt) – A thinking allowed DVD w/ Jeffrey MishloveLinks to an external site. [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mjDNKGIvWPQ
## Comparing Humanistic-Existential Psychotherapy with Other Approaches
### Humanistic-Existential Psychotherapy
Humanistic-existential psychotherapy focuses on the individual’s capacity for self-awareness, self-determination, and self-actualization. Rooted in the principles of humanism and existential philosophy, this approach emphasizes personal growth, freedom of choice, and the search for meaning in life. Therapists practicing this approach strive to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their feelings and thoughts, ultimately leading to greater self-understanding and fulfillment. Key figures in this field include Carl Rogers, who developed person-centered therapy, and Rollo May, who emphasized existential analysis.
### Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, time-limited approach that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. CBT aims to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs that contribute to emotional distress and maladaptive behaviors. By employing techniques such as cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, and exposure therapy, CBT helps clients develop healthier ways of thinking and coping with challenges. This approach is widely used for treating various mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and phobias.
### Differences between Humanistic-Existential Psychotherapy and CBT
1. **Focus on the Present vs. Future Goals:**
– **Humanistic-Existential Psychotherapy:** Emphasizes understanding the present moment and the client’s current experience, encouraging self-awareness and personal growth.
– **CBT:** Focuses on setting specific, future-oriented goals and developing strategies to achieve these goals by changing thought and behavior patterns.
2. **Therapist’s Role:**
– **Humanistic-Existential Psychotherapy:** The therapist acts as a facilitator, providing a non-directive and empathetic environment. The therapeutic relationship is central to the process.
– **CBT:** The therapist takes a more directive role, actively guiding the client through structured interventions and exercises designed to change cognitive and behavioral patterns.
3. **Approach to Problem-Solving:**
– **Humanistic-Existential Psychotherapy:** Encourages clients to explore and understand their existential concerns, such as meaning, freedom, and responsibility, often leading to personal insights and self-acceptance.
– **CBT:** Utilizes practical and systematic techniques to address specific problems, often involving homework assignments and measurable outcomes.
### Impact on Practice as a PMHNP
Understanding these differences is crucial for a PMHNP, as it informs the choice of therapeutic approach based on the client’s needs and presenting issues. While humanistic-existential therapy may be beneficial for clients seeking deeper self-understanding and existential meaning, CBT might be more effective for those needing structured interventions to manage specific symptoms.
### Application in Practice
#### Humanistic-Existential Psychotherapy
In the video “James Bugental live case consultation psychotherapy,” Bugental utilizes humanistic-existential psychotherapy to help the patient explore their inner experiences and existential concerns. This approach is chosen because it aligns with the patient’s need to understand and find meaning in their life challenges. The supportive and empathetic environment fosters a deep connection between the therapist and the patient, facilitating personal growth and self-acceptance.
#### Potential Outcome with CBT
If CBT had been used with the patient in the video, the focus would have shifted to identifying and modifying specific negative thought patterns and behaviors. While this might lead to symptom relief and practical coping strategies, it may not address the patient’s deeper existential concerns and the need for personal meaning, potentially limiting the depth of therapeutic progress.
### Supporting Sources
1. **”Humanistic Psychology: A Clinical Manifesto” by David N. Elkins (2015)**
– This book provides an in-depth exploration of humanistic psychology principles and their application in clinical practice, emphasizing the importance of empathy, self-awareness, and personal growth.
2. **”Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Basics and Beyond” by Judith S. Beck (2020)**
– This comprehensive guide to CBT outlines the theoretical foundations and practical techniques used in CBT, offering evidence-based strategies for treating various mental health conditions.
3. **”The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Review of Meta-analyses” by Hofmann et al. (2017)**
– This peer-reviewed article reviews multiple meta-analyses on the effectiveness of CBT, providing robust evidence for its efficacy in treating a range of psychological disorders.
These sources are considered scholarly because they are written by experts in the field, published in reputable academic journals or by academic publishers, and provide evidence-based information supported by research.
### Conclusion
Both humanistic-existential psychotherapy and CBT offer valuable approaches to mental health treatment, each with its unique strengths and focus areas. Understanding their differences and applications allows PMHNPs to tailor their interventions to meet the individual needs of their clients, ultimately enhancing therapeutic outcomes.
### References
1. Elkins, D. N. (2015). *Humanistic Psychology: A Clinical Manifesto*. University of the Rockies Press.
2. Beck, J. S. (2020). *Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Basics and Beyond* (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
3. Hofmann, S. G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I. J., Sawyer, A. T., & Fang, A. (2017). The effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy: A review of meta-analyses. *Cognitive Therapy and Research, 36*(5), 427-440.
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