Compare And Contrast The Two Theoretical Models Of Counseling

In modern-day psychology we are equipped with a wide variety of therapies, techniques, and approaches that have been based on the different models and theories of human behavior and development. Because many new situations arise during psychotherapy, psychologists have come up with different theoretical models of counseling that are applicable for these cases. These theoretical models of counseling have helped in overcoming the impacts of several emotional psychological difficulties such as stress, depression and anxiety (Fall & Holden, 2010). As they may solve similar problems in human beings, these models also have their differences. Throughout this paper I will compare and contrast two theoretical models of counseling; cognitive behavioral

In relation to the two theoretical models of counseling being discussed, the therapeutic relationships differ from one model to the other. Within both models, the client and therapist hold different roles (Corey, 2009). In client-centered therapy, the relationship between client and counselor is crucial (Tudor & Worrall, 2006) because the therapy is centered towards the client, as the client is the focal point of the therapy. Due to this, the therapist must ensure that respect, genuineness, and empathy towards the client are maintained. The relationship must be equal as it is crucial in aiding behavior change in the client (Wilkins, 2010). The therapeutic relationship in cognitive behavioral therapy is one that resembles the relationship between a teacher and student. The therapist acts as the teacher and the client as the student. The role of the therapist is to give therapeutical instructions to the client who listens and does what the counselor says. In this relationship, the counselor employs directive structures to direct clients on behavior changes (Dryden & Bond, 2000). In this case, the counselor acts as the focal point since he impacts much on the cognitive and behavioral changes in the client. However, for desirable results, collaboration is ensured during

The limitations of the client-centered therapy are distinctive to that of cognitive behavioral therapy. Since the therapist is a passive entity during this therapy, cases of limited responses are occasional. There is lack of direction for most clients since the counselor remains inactive (Wilkins, 2010). In cases when crisis occurs, the clients will lack support. In cognitive behavioral therapy, it is believed to downplay the emotions of clients. It lacks the focus on determining the underlying unconsciousness in the clients and due to this fails in relating the client’s past with the present experiences. Since it entails confrontation, this therapy may witness cases of termination, as most clients may not cope with its expectations (Fall & Holden,