Realtional Approach To Counselling

2537 Words11 Pages
Relational Approach attachment theory and repeating relational patterns. The implications for the councellor’s way of being with the client. Relational Approach I Essay , Diploma HE Therapeutic Counselling (2,320 words, not including references) The Relational Approach to Counselling Introduction In this essay, I will discuss the relational approach in terms of attachment theory and repeating relational patterns. Further, I will show how the relational model builds on various theoretical perspectives namely the psychodynamic and humanistic traditions. I will consider how the relational approach impacts on the counsellor’s way of being with the client. I will illustrate this with examples drawn from my own client base in my placement, without including any identifiable information in order to maintain confidentiality. I have referred to the individual clients concerned as clients A, B and C. Finally, I will then outline the implications of working with a culturally diverse population. The Relational Approach and Attachment Theory Several theories (Holmes, Paul & Pelham 1996, p229) have been formulated over recent years in order to understand the intricacies of human relationships, namely Gestalt theory and the Relational Approach. I will discuss only the latter in this essay. The relational model of counselling brings together the psychodynamic and humanistic traditions. Psychodynamics is a theory and systematic study of the relationship between conscious and unconscious motivations. Early psychodynamic theory was developed by Sigmund Freud and by the mid 1950s the general application of this theory had been well established. Psychodynamic counselling tries to get the client to bring to the surface their true feelings which are present in the subconscious. It is very directive, analytical and clinical method of counselling. The humanistic
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