Theory Integration
Narrative-collaborative therapy is considered as one of the leaders in family therapy. It is because they are firmly rooted in the social construction of a person’s thoughts. As ta therapist, it is crucial to understand the features of various counseling theories for their long term identity in the field. This theoretical framework is unique because it allows clinicians to explore the differences between the two theories: the narrative and collaborative approach, which propels continued treatment evolutions and progress from the conversation. Some of the challenges that I may encounter while attempting the theory integration include the under-preparedness by me, thus making the process as complex, given the strength and weakness contributing to my potential. The learning methods that aim at empowering social workers to gain the required skills, knowledge, and attitude are always below the set standards making it difficult for me to integrate social work theory into practice.
Theory integration is essential because it leads to the development of a suitable framework that benefits the practice and clients. Some of the benefits include increased therapeutic intervention. As a clinician, the integration helps me have answers as to why the social environment plays a crucial role in influencing the client’s behavior. Application of theory to the clinical practice promotes confidence in professional knowledge and skills while working with clients. As a therapist and have no experience with couple therapy, the social work theory classes need to involve practices that demonstrate the application of different theories applicable to different persons. Despite the many challenges I experience while working with couples and integrating this theory, the key challenges can be summarized as difficulties in choosing the relevant theories to apply for couples or families. New clinicians often struggle with flexibility in adjusting to the processes and avoiding dogmatism and mechanism in opinion.
As a therapist, I will mitigate the challenges by devoting my time to learning the theoretical applications, models, and other tools for assisting families or couples. I will push for knowledge acquisition and putting the knowledge acquired into practice. For example, the collaborative theory is a unique theoretical framework that enhances the therapist’s role of knowing the client, thus enhancing mutual puzzling, shared inquiry, and two-way dialogue among the person involved, curiosity, and wittiness. The narrative approach is based on the client’s story. The therapist will help the client create meaning out of their experience as a therapist understanding how to separate the problem from the client and examine various ways in addressing the issue and help the client develop right coping strategies. Therapists have to empower their clients to be resourceful by believing in them and enacting the preferred narrative by creating a story. The aim of being an expert and allowing clients to understand their problems is to give them control over their lives, thus improving the treatment outcome.
References