Compare and Contrast the Ways in Which the Psychodynamic and Cognitive-Behavioural Approaches to Counselling Understand and Make Use of the Counselling Relationship

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This essay will summarise the core principles of psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural approaches to counselling, and illustrate some of the similarities and difference between the two approaches. In addition, outlining the counsellor-client relationship and illustrating some of the similarities and differences within the two approaches. The psychodynamic approach to counselling, originally emerged from the work of Sigmund Freud, one of the founders of modern psychology. This approach to counselling is used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, and it aims to help the client to release repressed unconscious emotions and experiences, and to have a better understanding of the reasons behind their problems. Freud’s key assumptions were that behaviour and feelings are rooted from childhood experiences, and that people are not aware of these experiences because, these memories are repressed into the unconscious part of the mind. Consequently, such unconscious matter shows itself through dreams, fantasies and therapy, and as an emotional response of transference, (McLeod, 2008, p130). Most of the supporting evidence for psychodynamic counselling, comes from Freud’s case studies, like that of Anna O and Little Hans. Cognitive-behavioural approach to counselling evolved from behavioural psychology, which is seen as being created by J. B. Watson, a psychology professor. This approach to counselling refers to a number of methods of counselling that all have similar approaches to solving problems. Cognitive-behavioural counselling is used to treat a wide range of disorders including depression and addiction, and the aim is to change the patterns of thinking or behaviour that are behind their problems. Furthermore, the counsellor employs techniques that will give the client the power to recognise negative thoughts and behaviour, and help them develop
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