Theories of Counseling - Adlerian Therapy

This video explains the theory of Adlerian Therapy as applied to mental health counseling. A summary of Adlerian Therapy and opinion on how specific aspects can be used in integrative counseling are reviewed.

[@saltlifegull4091]

Dr. Grande is one of the best on KZbin! His calm delivery of well prepared information keeps viewers engaged and wanting more!

[@tommyfisher-klein8768]

I really like Adler's idea of collecting "basic mistakes" from a client. This concept is a great way of understanding how the client views themselves' in a negative light and can be the starting point for various client issues and can easily shape the counseling session(s) and the client/counselor therapeutic relationship.

[@pearlbutler9377]

There is much about this therapy that seems to be beneficial. Adler believed in the person as a whole. He recognized the social aspects to individuals and how it encouraged or stunted growth. His theories seemed to be directly related to his life but for me makes sense. I feel I received a better understanding of how dreams can relate to therapy when reviewing his theory. His techniques seems to encourage change through personal insight.

[@ivengrowe4783]

Whatever a person is experiencing, after the evaluation, there is a theory that addresses the problem. With the Adlerian theory, the lifestyle of the client and many other techniques are used to get them away from the "woe is me" attitude and steer them in a positive direction where they can begin to heal. What was surprising is that problems can begin as early as age 5. There is so much to unpack here and I want to learn as much as I could.

[@katesatan666]

These videos are so wonderful. I’m preparing to take an exam and I am freaking out. Thank you for these wonderful videos!!! Amazing overview.

[@lauraleslie4240]

There were two main points that struck me from Adlerian Theory. The first is that Adler believed that mental health disorders were not hereditary or genetic, but yet as result of one's responses to environment and genetics. The second is this is the first theory to address an individual's role in their environment, birth order, and gave relevance to socialization or the lack thereof. I found Adlerian Theory to be rather intriguing with its insight into inferiority versus superiority and how they can both manifest within social behaviors.

[@tyonnabrooks748]

I like that this theory has a focus on birth order. I believe that a strong component to individual's personality stems from their birth order and their reactions to their environment based on the interactions with their siblings and/or peers. I think it's important for each counselor to always remember this theory for therapeutic use when discussing their client's family history. Thanks!

[@kristsinaasimava8000]

Thank you for this video, it was helpful for my "Theories of counseling" class.

[@DrGrande]

You are welcome - thank you for watching -

[@johnnguyen2920]

Thank you doctor. This was very helpful and it definitely gave me a better understanding of the adlerian concepts for counseling!

[@tamm0110]

Thank you! This was detailed and easy to follow.

[@priscillaj3072]

I like that Alderian therapy is more goal oriented. I think it is very helpful when the client has something to work towards and it also allows us as counselors, and the clients as well, to see where they stand in terms of growth and progress, whether they meet the targeted goals or not. The "homework" technique is definitely something I would integrate into my own personal counseling style. Counseling can be very overwhelming for a client, so by breaking down the bigger goals and setting smaller ones, may reduce the amount of pressure the client feels to change. Also, by achieving smaller goals between sessions, could be motivating for the client and hopefully promote that positive change that they are working towards.

[@alexandrajones3178]

+priscilla j I feel the same way, I think the homework technique is something that could be very useful to applying skills into client's real life situations. Without this, I don't think there would be much success when it comes to applying changes and skills. It is always more motivating for me when I can achieve small goals that lead up to a larger one. I feel much better about achieving them and it helps to get to large one rather than just failing to achieve the large one. These smaller goals also allow the client more opportunities for encouragement from the counselor when achieving them.

[@scottmartin7764]

+priscilla j Priscilla, I totally agree about liking how goal oriented Alderian therapy is! I also believe that it is very important to be more directive and focus on certain goals the client has. I also agree with your feelings on the homework, I believe that if the client doesn't take away something from the counseling session and work on themselves outside of the counseling session there goals cannot be reached.

[@shilpanarayan6076]

Thank you for making these theories simple and your voice is soothing

[@emilytwomey7817]

When watching this video, something that stood out to me was the techniques section, particularly that of the "acts as if" technique. What I find interesting is that this is considered a technique in counseling, but something we often do starting from a young age. Although this specifies behavior, we utilize this in many scenarios, such as giving a presentation and being confident, meaning we will give a successful presentation. Its interesting to see how this can be rolled over to something practiced with clients, that could be considered by many, as a relatively easy concept to implement.

[@angelinastanton7996]

It was very interesting to consider that the ways in which you react to situations and the ways you adjust to situations can influence your ability to develop maladaptive symptoms, leading toward mental illness. It was also interesting to learn how this theory focuses on a client's self-defeating behaviors and thoughts. Adler's theory truly places the power to progress or self-destruct within the client. I liked his concepts of birth order and its impact on the client's behaviors and personality.

[@olaladomex36]

Getting ready for the CPCE. This is valuable info. Thank you!

[@alexdeloach6472]

I particularly enjoyed Dr. Grande's opinion at the end. I agree with the usefulness of encouragement, therapeutic alliance and role playing in the counseling session (which is also useful in various other theories). The acting as if technique and the push button technique were interesting for me, which I would like to explore more in depth.

[@karentyu1365]

Thank you Dr Grande, It's very helpful.

[@loriwardwell2957]

I was surprised to read of the little research on Adlerian therapy, it seems like a dynamic and well used approach

[@andreanichols7950]

Very easy to follow and was able to extend my understanding of theory once I read the chapter.

[@kyarapanula1002]

Unlike the more psychodynamic theories, I can definitely appreciate how Adlerian therapy more readily utilizes adaptation to obstacles over analysis of unconscious content. The 'style of life' concept brings up many questions, however--namely, is the 'style of life' fixed after the age 4 or 5? Such a paradigm seems utterly restrictive, regardless of the openness that follows Adlerian therapists. This is very telling of Adler's own life history, especially of the timing of his contribution to psychology.

[@scottmartin7764]

I think that this was really informative. It's interesting that they take dream analysis and role play, doing it differently than any other theory. I also liked that there were so many techniques, I think that's great to be able to adjust and work with any client that may come through the door. I really like the focus on family and birth order, it's odd at first but there seems to be something there when fully understood.

[@almienavares6874]

Thank you for this video of Adler, I hope you could also create a video about adler's theory itself.

[@anahgalloway2740]

When learning about theories of development and personality in the past I have always heard people discuss the "nature versus nurture debate". Generally, theorists believe development is caused by genetics, environment, or often a combination of both. It was very interesting to me to learn that Adler believed the cause of mental health symptoms was neither "nature" nor "nurture", but instead, manifested from an individual's reactions/responses to their genetics or their environment. This was a completely new concept for me to consider!

[@heather7927]

+Anah Galloway I agree that I thought it was interesting too how Adler believed that mental health issues were neither nature or nurture. I can appreciate how a reaction to an event from their genetics or environment can be the cause of a mental illness. Definitely a situation that makes a person go hmmmm :)

[@jackieslavin2150]

I find Adlerian therapy interesting. I like the way Adler breaks down style of life and social interest. I think the way family and family dynamic is looked at in this theory is also interesting. I do agree that how style of life is formed depends on the family dynamic. I also agree that birth order plays a part in life and I like that this theory puts an emphasis on that.

[@lizconnor1820]

I found the information on family relationships and birth order, specifically, the role that birth order plays in how a child develops their style of life and interacts with others in society, rather interesting. One thing I personally would have liked to hear more about though is how Adler characterizes children who are multiples. As a fraternal twin (I am female and my twin is male) and the middle of four children, I wonder how Adlerians would view my position in the family and how this has impacted my behavior and ability to relate to others. Would an Adlerian counselor approach me differently than an individual who has a twin of the same sex? He and I are similar in intelligence level and extremely competitive with one another in all aspects of our lives. Would an Adlerian theorist conclude that we were competing for a position in the birth order given that we share the position of middle child? Unfortunately, I am left with more questions than answers when I wonder how an Adlerian counselor would approach me and others like me (twins, triplets, etc.) in a counseling situation.

[@rhondabaileyyy]

I do like how Alderian therapy focuses on birth order. I do believe that this does play an intricate role in how we behavior as adults. I also like Alderian therapy allows clients to explore their strengths and weaknesses.

[@amandagerrick5407]

The techniques for this theory really seem like they could be useful in counseling sessions. I'm interested in learning more about them to use in the future.

[@rehoboth7078]

This was very helpful. thank you

[@robertodonati1037]

I found interesting how Adler's own health experience when young and his interest in Marx's writing on socialism prompted him to developed a theory based on how feelings of physical or social inadequacy could lead to an inferiority complex. At the same time is interesting how these feelings can be positively compensated by superiority, unless it is excessive and would create a superiority complex.

[@dalietamears7116]

I am interested in several of the techniques in Adler's theory. Act as if and push button are 2 discussed in the videos however there are several more he used that I also find interesting. I also find that Adler's early life experiences shaped his theory inferiority and superiority as well as birth order.

[@caitlinirwin6334]

I enjoyed how the theory pertains to goal orientation and that this therapy helps clients to identify their inferiority/superiority. Yet I also agree that not everyone will respond to this kind of therapy, especially if the client displays an inferiority complex involving being able to develop a healthier social approach. If the client was not exposed to a plethora of social interactions the client could suffer from lack of problem solving skills and not know how to cope better than to avoid and isolate form their problems. This therapy could help identify what the client needs to work on, but another type of therapy might be of use when developing healthier socialization.

[@elviramtowo4692]

very clear and to the point. thanks Todd

[@DrGrande]

You are welcome!

[@drdemimoore]

I found Adler’s theory very helpful. I liked how there are multiple techniques within this therapy. The variety allows the therapist to see which one will work best for each client since we have learned all clients are unique. The acting if technique allows the client to do this daily. It encourages the clients to think positive and see that their new behavior will be successful. I valued Dr. Grandes opinion on homework being related to behavioral goals. Something that the counselor can define with the client. The completion can be assessed. This allows the counselor to build on that, or take some steps backwards to see what other techniques could work for that particular client.

[@angelinastanton7996]

Demi Moore I also like that there are a variety of techniques used. I also like the "Acting as if" technique because I think it allows the client to try new reactions in a safe, comfortable environment with the therapist.

[@joe1579]

it is interesting how Alder looked at social issues, & the idea that we have innate social interests that are based on cooperation, as opposed to competition.

[@aussiebreeze3971]

The video organizes the Adlerian theory into its main components without excessive detail. It is a general brief description. Most interesting were the techniques used that would be easily integrated into almost any other theory. For example, the "basic mistake" seems to be an issue for almost every client (human) at some given moment. Overgeneralizing is where inferiority and superiority begin. I found the techniques to be concrete in terms of usefulness; however, as Dr. Grande relays, these techniques must be understood as to not misuse them, which would in turn hurt the client.

[@monicaperry13]

I agree with you, especially where basic mistakes are concerned. I was able to think of times that i have used over generalization and times that i have heard many others use it as well. Very interesting.

[@cherylchance904]

Great information. As we proceed to learn more about the different theories of therapy, I am sure that we will all feel more comfortable with some than others. Given that understanding, I can certainly relate, to some degree, to what Adler is saying but also feel that some of it is not where I plan to place my focus. For example, I had to chuckle on the style of life where one of the things that shape this is our own family dynamics. While I think that this can in fact contribute toward certain situations, I don't think that individuals can use this "blame the parents" card for all of their issues. I found the dynamic of aptitude and ability important as well. As a mother of 3, I find myself always striving to ensure that my children are immersed in different social activities not necessarily for the actual sport but to team team building and other social skills. His theory is definitely very different than others in the sense that he does not believe that genetics or the environment play a part. I disagree with that. I think there is definitely a genetic component to mental health that cannot be ignored. Lastly, with regard to some of his resolution strategies, I can see where encouragement similar to that offered in CBT is a valuable component to anyone seeking counseling regardless of the issue.

[@nakeshatucker6844]

I like how Alder incorporated encouragement as a therapy technique. Often times, it is discouragement that provokes us to act in unhealthy ways. I know I feel so much better being around encouraging people; it helps me to accomplish the things I never thought I could. And that is very important in the field of counseling. Positive regard and encouragement promote growth.

[@katybethhern6167]

+Nakesha Tucker I agree that life is much better and less complex when being around encouraging people, especially at work and at our classes. Thus, if someone is always put down and told they cannot do something, then ultimately they will never try.

[@priscillaj3072]

+Nakesha Tucker I agree with both you and Katy. I think in therapy counselors sometimes focus on the negatives aspects. Although those are the reasons clients come to therapy, I think it is important that the counselor extend some encouragement and warmth to the client to help promote growth and a more positive outlook on their situation and life in general. A little positivity can go a long way.

[@heather7927]

In my opinion I liked how this theory involved an emphasis on being goal oriented. It's interesting how this theory takes into account birth order but that can be an overgeneralization especially within blended families or with families that are adopted or in foster care. I think that having a social interest may be overly emphasized especially when considering introversion and extraversion. I can see how role playing and encouragement can be effective but it depends on the client and the situation. It may be effective for some but not for all.

[@pearlbutler9377]

+Heather I - I also love that this is a goal-oriented therapy.

[@monicaperry13]

I liked that this theory offers many different techniques and think that at least one of the techniques could be applied and useful with most clients. Also, when listening to the "basic mistakes" part of this video I kept thinking about how most people have made those mistakes at one point or another. Hearing about over generalizations made me think about adolescents and how often they do that.

[@amandagerrick5407]

I agree that there are so many techniques which makes it probable that it would work with most clients.

[@bAa-xj3ut]

Thank you very much.. very helpful

[@ashleymegahan5966]

There is much overlap between Adlerian therapy and cognitive therapy, specifically with the techniques that the counselor utilizes in counseling. I think that Adlerian therapy has much to offer not only for the counselor, but the client as well. I agree with Adlers theory in regards to childhood experiences and how that shapes personality.

[@charmainequarles5863]

I completely agree with Adler's social interest concept as it relates to low social interest being associated with poor mental health. I think social interest is a learned behavior and parents should encourage positive social interaction between their children and others. Social interaction teaches problem solving, social skills as well as coping skills. Adler's belief that the only child does not cooperate well with other children is a perfect example what can happen when social interaction with other children is not promoted or encouraged. While only children may be have skills that allow them to relate to adults, not having the skills to relate to children can be detrimental to their development.

[@pearlbutler9377]

+Charmaine Quarles I agree Charmaine, Parents should encourage social interactions to help their children expand their insight. Some parents allow personal fears to limit their children's interaction with others in their environment.

[@charmainequarles5863]

That is very true Pearl. I never thought about the parent's fear being part of the reason they isolate their children.

[@kikixiong6156]

Personally, I think the techniques in Adlerian Therapy can be very useful as they are integrated into other counseling styles. For example, I think roleplay gives the client an opportunity to act on a behavior and discover their feelings while acting out the behavior and also think about the consequences of the behavior. I also like that Adlerian therapy acknowledges the importance of therapeutic alliance, as it could be an important component to facilitate therapeutic change.

[@zureezee1887]

I think it is interesting that Adler did not believe that mental health symptoms were caused by the environment or genetics, and believed it was a way the individual reacted and responded to their genetics and environment. The one thing that stood out most for me was the fact that this was the first theory to put emphasis on therapeutic relationships.

[@MyDonh]

I am a bit confused by what Dr. Grande called the core of the Adlerian theory. If Adler did not believe that mental health symptoms were caused by genetics or the person's environment ( I assume by this Adler is referring to both internal and external factors) but by the way the person responded to both dynamics. If that is true, then what factors motivate the person's response?

[@johnharrisjr2808]

I found it interesting that Adler would focus on a therapeutic alliance in a time when it was not popular. At that time mutual respect and trust was not used much in counseling. Using the push button technique I can see where thinking of a good moment and the feelings surrounding it being beneficial but how would thinking of a bad moment and the feelings surrounding it be beneficial?

[@ushalincoln9669]

I found the Alder's outlook on family relationship and birth ordering is very interesting. However personally I do not agree with it I do see how it can definitely play apart in ones personality, however I believe it more relies on ones upbringing. For example I am an only child and I believe that I actually interact better with my peers then with adults because socialization was a big part of my upbringing.

[@amyocasio6382]

I like that there are multiple techniques available within Adlerian Therapy. The variety of techniques allows for the therapist to utilize which technique(s) are appropriate for each client instead of being restricted to a specific technique. Also, while it may be necessary to collect information regarding style of life, I think it is necessary to utilize caution in regards to birth order. I am the second of five children and when thinking of my siblings and myself, there are some inconsistencies with the descriptions of the oldest, middle, etc.. I'm not discrediting that the descriptions may be accurate for some but just pointing out that the descriptions aren't always valid and while birth order may play a part, it shouldn't hold a significant amount of weight in determining why an individual behaves a particular way

[@kyarapanula1002]

+Amy Ocasio I think this raises a valid point, Amy, in that these 'bullet points' of various theories are not a blanket for therapy, as ultimately the counseling process needs to be unique for each client. I keep coming back to the phrase 'cherry-picking' as it often sounds like the therapist gets to reach into his or her tool bag and pick whichever tenet from their theory makes the most sense for that client. While on one hand this sounds appropriate (and why we're building our reservoir of tools and techniques), but I can only hope that the therapist is perceptive enough to not continue with that rule if it ends up not working/fitting for the client. Regardless of theory, we have a duty to be responsive with each client and their needs.

[@corinne7324]

I concur with Adler's approach on family relationships and birth order. I personally believe you can tell much about a person by knowing their birth order. Dr. Grande mentioned that only children do not cooperate well with others. The first thing that came to mind when he said that was the term, 'Only child syndrome'. Due to children not having siblings to rival with, they may turn out to be spoiled.

[@zureezee1887]

Interesting because the birth order concept seems to be a multicultural idea as most cultures believe behaviors are influenced by a persons birth order.

[@alexdeloach6472]

corinne ficara I agree, and really enjoy the approaches on birth order. When learning about them, I try to visualize how they relate to families that I know, including my own family. For example, I have one brother, who is younger and was very competitive as a child.

[@ushalincoln9669]

I also find it so interested when people say that only children have "only child" syndrome, however I think it is more depended on how ones parents choose to rise their child. I personally believe from an opinion of an only child who people often say do not act like an only child, that it is just stereotypical label.

[@gazellerose2584]

Very helpful video

[@DrGrande]

Thank you!

[@janicedixon2051]

I find it interesting that Adlerian counselors use social interest as a method of assessment to determine poor mental health or good mental health. Dr. Grande mentioned that diagnosis is not emphasized by Adler but make use of the social interest assessment which brings me to wonder why?

[@angelagrimes3994]

I can see the benefits of many of Adlerian techniques and perhaps combing them together. For example, you could use the "acting as if" technique with "catching oneself. When a client determines a behavior that her or she wishes to change (catching one's self), a new behavior could be substituted in it's place (acting as if). This could be a practical and useful application.

[@cherylchance904]

I would definitely agree with you Angela. I am always looking for new strategies to implement. While I didn't see where any one by itself would be entirely effective, I did feel that a combination of multiple strategies could help clients achieve resolution for their concerns.

[@katybethhern6167]

I like the ideas and components of Alder's theory. I specifically found his "acting as if" technique to be very helpful and simple for clients to practice outside of their counseling sessions. Thus, this technique encourages the client to think in a positive manner, by acting as his or her new behavior WILL be successful. This technique reminded me of the law of attraction theory. However, I'm still skeptical on the technique of dream interpretation. Adler uses dreams to gain insight on the progress of the client's therapy. However, I'm not sure if I would base progress off of dreams, due to the minimal concrete research/insight on dream interpretation.

[@amyocasio6382]

+Katybeth Hern I'm not sure I agree with the statement, "simple for clients to practice outside of their counseling sessions" but I do agree that the "acting as if" technique could be very helpful to clients who are able to put the technique into action. I'm not sure I agree with it being "simple" because some client's may find it difficult to believe that there could be a positive outcome or that something could be successful. I guess it would depend at what point in therapy this technique was introduced as to whether or not it would be "simple" for the client to do.

[@melissahansbury6522]

+Katybeth Hern I agree that dream interpretation is a technique that leads to much skepticism, especially when basing client progress off of dreams. I also agree that "acting as if" is a very helpful technique. Any type of role play that allows the client to get in the mindset and see the possible outcomes of a situation before it even happens is beneficial. Having a positive attitude and believing that the new behavior will work is extremely powerful.

[@alexandrajones3178]

I find it interesting that this theory claims the style of life is developed by age 4 to 5 but also focuses on birth order having such an impact. I think birth order is important but it isn't likely that the family will have all of their children by the time a child is 5. Adding siblings to the mix would call for many changes in the style of life of a person. I do think it is important that Adler acknowledged grouping of siblings and how their interactions develop rather than just plain birth order. I do like the significance of family interactions within this theory. I believe that a person's character is heavily influenced by the family dynamic. Some people don't realize the influence they are having on their family members but I think you can understand a lot about a person by looking at their family.

[@cherylchance904]

That is a great point Alexandra and one that I didn't really think through until you mentioned it. The other dynamic of this is that family dynamics change. Sometimes parents get divorced, someone may die, a geographic move may take place and these things may not necessarily occur before this age yet they can still contribute toward having an effect on the outcomes of their character.

[@lizconnor1820]

Cheryl, I wonder if Adlerian and Existential theories could be integrated in the situations you have described given that these situations you have mentioned deal with living and dying, isolation and loving, & meaning and meaninglessness. It would be interesting to see how that would look!

[@chrisgeorge4604]

I find a lot of these therapies to be similar in the treatment aspect.

[@melissahansbury6522]

I like the techniques used in Adlerian therapy. Techniques that require the client to do the work is most effective in my book. Role-playing is extremely beneficial in a session when done right. I have seen this in the counseling sessions we conducted in Tools. Adlerian uses the technique of birth order which I find to be interesting. As a technique it seems to be lacking when first learning about it but after paying closer attention, the things that Adler describes happening between siblings I have seen in my own family and other families that I know.

[@nakeshatucker6844]

+Melissa Hansbury I think that the birth order concept needs to used cautiously applied or an overgeneralization could present itself. One of the main phrases that we have been introduced to is to treat clients as individuals. With that being said, a deep understanding needs to be established before determining birth order as a reason why a person is who they are or are experiencing what they are experiencing dependent upon their order of birth.

[@amyocasio6382]

+Nakesha Tucker I agree, I think when exploring birth order, there needs to be caution. I like that you mentioned "treat clients as individuals" and putting too much emphasis on birth order could interfere with the ability to see the client as an individual.

[@anahgalloway2740]

+Melissa Hansbury I was unsure about using birth order as a technique when learning about it in this video. I could not relate many of the characteristics to my family or any of my groups of cousins. I also agree with Nicki, that it could lead to overgeneralization. And I think birth order would become more relevant in later childhood and adolescence as opposed to early childhood and the formation of an individuals style of life.

[@brittbell15]

+Melissa Hansbury I agree Melissa, I think that role-playing is very beneficial as well. I think that it can help a person to express their feelings and thoughts in a different and potentially more comfortable way.

[@lopezcamarenalaura]

I would have liked more information regarding Adler's techniques such as: Silence, Spitting in the Client's Soup; immediacy, Humor, Re-Authorizing to name a few. I enjoyed the presentation otherwise. Laura

[@gloriawei6819]

I have trust issues with counselors. Can I heal myself by using Adlerian Therapy?

[@ryza2859]

Trust issues with a therapist is something Adlerian therapists focus on in Phase 1 of their treatment

[@brittbell15]

I thought that the break down of the birth order was very mind provoking; as I began to reflect on my life with my siblings, it seemed to be pretty accurate as well. I also liked this theory's way of interpreting dreams. In this theory, dreams help to retrieve knowledge about the current style of life and it also helps to measure the amount of progress that is being made throughout the therapy sessions.

[@tommyfisher-klein8768]

+Brittany Bell I agree with you Brittany I found it very interesting and thought provoking and began to look at my siblings and and how my eldest sister, 7 years older than myself, would be considered in her own group while my other sister, a year older than myself, would be in the same group and compared to each other, which truly happened.

[@angelagrimes3994]

+Brittany Bell I also find the concept of birth order to be very interesting. I am the oldest of six siblings. In a general way this concept applies. I think there are more gradations depending on gender and gaps between birthdays. However as the oldest, I was often perceived as taking on the parental role when I was told by one of my siblings that she did not need a second mother!

[@billhildebrand5053]

Comment 87: 42,210 views 375 likes and 25 dislikes Wow, by age 5, why was it Bernie ran away 5 miles just scared. Why ??? Innate collaborate attitude... I’m just chilling as I listen...

[@user-kw8ff9ne8l]

Could never work in america,in this highly competitive society,social interest is only superficial.