Question

Dr. Chisholm believes that different disorders require different techniques and strategies for treatment. She is most likely a practitioner of a. psychoanalysis b. positive psychotherapy. c. mindfulness meditation. d. integrative therapy.

Short answer

Dr. Chisholm likely practices integrative therapy.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding the Question

The question is about Dr. Chisholm, who believes that different disorders require different treatment techniques and strategies. We need to identify which therapeutic approach aligns with using various techniques.

Analyzing the Options

Option a is 'psychoanalysis', which focuses on uncovering unconscious thoughts and is a fixed methodology by itself, not known for using a variety of techniques for different disorders. Option b is 'positive psychotherapy', which emphasizes focusing on positive emotions and personal strengths, again not specifically known for using varied techniques. Option c is 'mindfulness meditation', a singular technique often incorporated into various therapies but not a therapy that describes using varied techniques uniquely. Option d is 'integrative therapy', which is specifically known for its approach of combining different therapeutic techniques and strategies to tailor treatment to each individual's need.

Choosing the Correct Answer

Considering Dr. Chisholm's belief in using different strategies and techniques for different disorders, this aligns most closely with the definition of integrative therapy, which uses a personalized treatment plan drawing from multiple therapeutic methods.

Key concepts

Therapeutic Approaches

Therapeutic approaches in psychology aim to improve mental health and well-being by using various strategies and techniques tailored to the individual's needs. A broad spectrum of therapies exists due to the diverse nature of disorders and individual differences.
One common method is **Integrative Therapy**, which combines elements from different therapeutic schools to customize treatment. This allows practitioners to draw from a range of techniques and philosophies depending on what they believe might benefit the client best. Other approaches might include more specialized methods, which can center on specific practices or theories, such as psychoanalysis or cognitive-behavioral techniques.
Utilizing multiple strategies can provide a more flexible and comprehensive approach to treatment, especially beneficial for complex or co-occurring disorders. Factors like the client's personal history, belief systems, and the specific symptoms presented can all influence the choice of therapeutic approach.

• Integrates aspects from multiple therapies
• Offers customized treatment plans
• Adaptable to individual client needs

Psychoanalysis

Psychoanalysis is one of the oldest therapeutic approaches, rooted in the theories of Sigmund Freud. It primarily seeks to uncover unconscious thoughts and feelings that influence behavior. This is done through techniques like free association, dream analysis, and transference interpretation.
The goal of psychoanalysis is to bring these unconscious elements into the conscious mind, allowing individuals to gain insight into their issues. By understanding hidden motivations, patients can find relief from emotional distress and alter detrimental patterns of behavior.
While traditional psychoanalysis typically involves long-term therapy, modern adaptations may focus more on specific issues and be comparatively brief.

• Focuses on unconscious processes
• Seeks long-term personal insight
• Utilizes techniques like dream analysis

Positive Psychotherapy

Positive Psychotherapy emphasizes improving an individual's mental health by focusing on positive emotions and personal strengths. Developed by Nossrat Peseschkian, it diverges from traditional psychotherapy by spotlighting what is going well in a person's life rather than only addressing deficits or dysfunctions.
This approach encourages individuals to harness positive emotions, such as gratitude and contentment, along with leveraging character strengths to overcome challenges. By cultivating these positive aspects, it aims to build resilience and foster a more fulfilling life experience.
Positive Psychotherapy is often empowering, as it helps clients recognize their inner capacities and resources:

• Focuses on positive emotions and strengths
• Aims to build resilience and well-being
• Highlights what is going well in one's life

Mindfulness Meditation

Mindfulness Meditation is a practice often incorporated into various therapeutic approaches. It involves training the mind to focus on the present moment non-judgmentally. Originating from Buddhist traditions, it has been adapted into numerous secular applications.
The idea is to help individuals increase their awareness of thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations, thereby improving their ability to manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health problems. Recognized for its benefits in improving focus and emotional regulation, mindfulness meditation is often used alongside other therapies to boost efficacy.
By fostering an attitude of openness and acceptance, this practice can significantly reduce rumination and emotional reactivity:

• Enhances present-moment awareness
• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Improves focus and emotional regulation