Adlerian Vs. Psychoanalytic Explanation

Understanding the various therapeutic orientations is an important process for student counselors, as it aids them in the development of a professional counselor identity. Through analyzation of therapy sessions in process, counselor students can formulate a better understanding of the various approaches and techniques that are utilized to assist patients with diverse needs (Sommers-Flanagan & Sommers- Flanagan, 2012). The learning team observed two therapy sessions: one therapy session utilizing the Adlerian approach and the second therapy session using the Psychoanalytic approach. The purpose of the analysis is to determine the techniques used in each therapeutic approach and the strengths and limitations each approach portrays in the session.

The Adlerian therapist discussed the technique that would be utilized in the session in detail and asked the client’s permission to move forward with the approach. Because the therapist provided a recap of the previous session and explained the purpose as gaining a better understanding of the client’s current challenges, and reflecting on past challenges is beneficial, the client appeared more engaged in the session. The therapist suggests there is a connection between the past and the present and explains that early memories influence how the client would respond to situations today. The therapist commences utilization of the technique by asking the client to recall his earliest memory. The client recalls an incident, and the therapist inquires as to whether the experience has influenced his interactions today. The client reflects that he was scared and there was someone present. The therapist begins to assess and analyze childhood experiences to the current lifestyle by questioning the client’s perception of how his recollection has influenced his relationships (Adlerian - Early Recollection,

The therapist sits quietly and encourages the client to engage in free association (Psychoanalytic Therapy Session, 2010). The client presents as resistant and uninterested in the session reporting he has nothing to say and does not remember why he is there. The therapist gives a minimal amount of guidance by reminding the client about his date the night prior. The client then begins to engage in free association, the therapist offers minimal encourages and interpretation during the session (Psychoanalytic Therapy Session, 2010). The client then begins to discuss his dreams, and the therapist utilizes dream analysis and interpretation to aid the client in bringing the unconscious to the conscious. She uses open-ended questions such as “what does that mean to you,” and "does this have any meaning to you?” an effort to encourage further free association. The client can associate dreams with his memories and current situations, and even portrays transference; however, the goal of the session was unclear. The therapist did not interact nor give any information that would provide insight regarding the therapist role in the session (Psychoanalytic Therapy Session,