Discussion Post: Theory Integration
Theory implementation highlights the situations you encounter that may necessitate the integration of other theories into your main theoretical orientation. Personal experiences, within your own past relationships, may sensitize or desensitize you to the relational issues presented by clients. The key, then, is recognizing the challenges to integrating theory and knowing how to mitigate these challenges in order to provide the best and most effective service to clients. However, always keep in mind that retaining professional integrity concerning your theoretical orientation is necessary.
To prepare for this Discussion, select one of the theories demonstrated in the videos this week (either Bowenian or structural) to use for this Discussion.
Post a brief description of your personal lens in treating couples and the theory you selected from the videos. Then, provide an explanation of one challenge you may encounter if you attempted to integrate the theory you selected with your lens of couples counseling in your professional practice. Then, explain how you might mitigate this challenge. Be specific.
The response should include a reference list. Double-space, using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, one-inch margins, and APA style of writing and citations.
Required Readings
Gurman, A. S., Lebow, J. L., Snyder, D. K. (2015). Clinical handbook of couple therapy. New York, NY: The Guilford Press.
Chapter 9, "Bowen Family Systems Couple Coaching"
Chapter 13, "Structural Couple Therapy"
Farmer, C., & Geller, M. (2005). The integration of psychodrama with Bowen's theories in couples therapy. Journal of Group Psychotherapy, Psychodrama and Sociometry, 58(2), 70-85.
Strait, J. G., Sandberg, J. G., Larson, J. H., & Harper, J. M. (2015). The relationship between family-of-origin experiences and sexual satisfaction in married couples. Journal of Family Therapy, 37(3), 361-385.