COUN622 - Belhaven University Lectures

The lecture explores reality therapy, feminist theory, and postmodern approaches, emphasizing personal responsibility, empowerment, and social context. It discusses Glasser’s choice theory, feminist principles of equality and advocacy, and postmodern techniques such as narrative and solution-focused therapies that promote meaning-making and client agency.

This session surveys Gestalt and behavior therapies, emphasizing the experiential and present-focused techniques of Gestalt (e.g., empty chair, body awareness) and the structured, measurable interventions of behavioral therapy. It links these approaches to biblical notions of renewal and mindfulness while stressing ethical awareness and counselor preparation.

This lecture examines psychoanalytic and Adlerian theories, contrasting Freud’s emphasis on unconscious drives, psychic determinism, and defense mechanisms with Adler’s focus on social connectedness, purpose, and striving for significance. It highlights the historical evolution of these models and their implications for counseling, personality development, and faith-based integration.

This lecture introduces cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), outlining their structured, evidence-based frameworks for identifying and disputing maladaptive thoughts. It discusses the collaborative nature of these modalities, their empirical grounding, and the balance between cognitive restructuring and emotional insight.

The concluding session examines family systems theory and multicultural competencies, emphasizing genograms, family interaction patterns, and communication strategies. It stresses the counselor’s role in developing cultural humility, avoiding stereotypes, and fostering therapeutic alliances that respect clients’ diverse worldviews.

The discussion centers on existential and person-centered approaches, exploring core concepts such as freedom, responsibility, and the search for meaning alongside Rogers’ principles of self-actualization, congruence, and unconditional positive regard. It underscores reflective listening, client empowerment, and the integration of spirituality within therapeutic relationships.

This introductory lecture outlines the course framework for  Theories of Counseling, Psychotherapy, and Personality , emphasizing ethical responsibility, theoretical foundations, and integration of biblical principles. Students are introduced to major theoretical models, the importance of self-reflection, and professional communication in preparation for counselor training.