Conference paper
A metatheoretical framework for the integration of the common factors of psychotherapy
Innovations in a Changing World , pp.247-258
Australian College of Applied Psychology, 2019 (Melbourne, Australia, 28-Oct-2019)
Australian College of Applied Psychology
2020
Abstract
Background: Extensive research has established the effectiveness of counselling and psychotherapy and identified a number of common factors involved in the therapeutic change process. The current disciplinary understanding is that therapeutic outcomes are dependent on the enactment of these key factors of therapeutic change, which explains why quite different theoretical approaches can achieve similar therapeutic outcomes. However, simply knowing what these common factors are, and attending to them in a way that is not necessarily systematic, limits their potential to support positive therapeutic outcomes. A robust metatheoretical framework which guides the integration of these key influencers of therapeutic change, whilst providing space for individual professional expression and preference, is what is proposed in this paper. Approach: The proposed metatheoretical framework interlinks the different common factors by focusing on the relationship between the following elements, trust, self-identity, play, strategic action and review. Erikson proposed that as trusting relationships are established, a sense of basic hope emerges providing a confident foundation for the ongoing development of the self. This self-development is further activated through the emergence of the capacity for play and reflective function supported by a trusting relationship. Genuine play stimulates neurological changes which support an expanding self-awareness. This expanding self-awareness is evidenced in therapy by clearer therapeutic goals that can help direct a process which utilises a variety of interventions drawn from relationship focused, task focused, and transpersonal strategies. Significance: The metatheoretical framework outlined in this paper integrates current research, providing clarity and focus for the therapeutic enterprise. This framework allows for the integration of a variety of strategic practices within a comprehensive understanding of the change process.
Details
- Title
- A metatheoretical framework for the integration of the common factors of psychotherapy
- Authors
- Denis J O'Hara (Author) - University of QueenslandFiona O'Hara (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Social Sciences - Legacy
- Contributors
- Katrina Andrews (Editor) - Griffith UniversityFiona Ann Papps (Editor) - Australian College of Applied PsychologyVincent Mancini (Editor) - Curtin UniversityLarissa Clarkson (Editor) - Australian College of Applied PsychologyKathryn Nicholson Perry (Editor) - Australian College of Applied PsychologyGraeme Senior (Editor) - Australian College of Applied PsychologyEric Brymer (Editor) - Southern Cross University
- Publication details
- Innovations in a Changing World , pp.247-258
- Conference details
- Australian College of Applied Psychology, 2019 (Melbourne, Australia, 28-Oct-2019)
- Publisher
- Australian College of Applied Psychology
- Organisation Unit
- School of Law and Society; School of Social Sciences - Legacy; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99664097402621
- Output Type
- Conference paper
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