Counseling psychology relies on many different theories of communication.
The field of counseling psychology draws from many different theories of communication, which stem from the behavioral and cognitive, humanistic and psychodynamic schools of thought. Depending on your psychological orientation and approach toward mental health and psychopathology, you may find that one style of communication works best in the development of your therapeutic style. Additionally, you may find that certain patients benefit from specific styles of communication (such as cognitive-behavioral). Therefore, you will want to be schooled in all the major theories of communication.
Cognitive-Behavioral Theory of Communication
CBT is one model of communication in counseling psychology.
The cognitive-behavioral theory of communication draws on a variety of methods first created by psychologist Aaron T. Beck. The CBT model aims to identify problematic areas in the patient's life and alter them by changing the patient's thoughts and behaviors. For example, the counselor might help the patient identify negative thoughts and restructure them so they are positive and more realistic. This theory of communication often involves a lot of "homework," for which the patient records his or her thoughts in between sessions.
Client-centered Theory of Communication
Client-centered therapy helps individuals develop better relationships.
The client-centered or Rogerian theory of communication is derived from Carl Rogers, a prominent psychoanalyst in the mid-to-late 1900s. This theory bases its communication style on three major factors: genuineness (a more genuine therapist creates a better relationship between herself and her patient); acceptance (the therapist loves and respects the patient unconditionally); and understanding (being continually empathic to the patient's problems). This theory of communication requires that the therapist be in touch with his or her own feelings. Because of its interpersonal and analytical nature, this form of communication often results in high transference and counter-transference. It is more personalized than the CBT model.
PsychodynamicTheory of Communication
The psychodynamic theory of communication places emphasis on two major areas: the patient's early childhood and the patient's dreams and unconscious wishes. This style of communication relies on dream analysis, free-associations, word associations (as derived from C.G. Jung) and unconscious repressions. Patients in analysis often attend sessions more than once a week and sometimes for years. In this regard, the counselor's style of communication is to comment only when he/she can offer an interpretation that may help the patient see something differently. The counselor rarely comments to make small talk or to show empathy.
Humanistic Theory of Communication
The humanistic school of thought says that each patient is an individual with unique problems such that they cannot be boxed into a specific category or illness. This theory often draws from existential psychology and involves discussion of major life changes, such as birth, death and loss. The therapist in this regard acts more like a mentor and guide rather than an analyst. In this way, the patient guides most of the sessions.
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