This is very different from a ‘purist’ approach, for example, in which the therapist might view the client and the work through one particular theoretical lens, and operate exclusively within that one approach. We suggest that every approach has something useful to offer but no one approach holds all the answers.
Examples of the theoretical approaches we might include in integrative work are Person-centred work, Relational Depth, Gestalt, Transactional Analysis, Jungian and Freudian concepts, Attachment Theory, Psychosynthesis, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Family Systems, Neuroscience, and Existential approaches.
Integrative counselling is not an ‘anything goes’ approach however – students will develop and critically evaluate their own philosophical position (you will learn about psychodynamic, humanistic and cognitive-behavioural positions) and will select ways of working from a range of different approaches which are harmonious with your underlying philosophy. That way, you can work in ways that fundamentally make sense to you, while maximising the possibilities you can offer your clients within the therapeutic relationship.