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Holistic approach to therapy -

Adlerian theory is a holistic approach to therapy that focuses on overcoming feelings of inferiority and gaining a sense of belonging.

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Emphasis -

Therapists who apply this theory emphasize the importance of social interactions and community involvement if people want to achieve personal growth.

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The namesake -

Contemporary Adlerian theory is based on the ideas of Alfred Adler, an Austrian psychiatrist and fleeting colleague of Sigmund Freud.

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Adler and Freud -

Adler was at one point part of Freud’s inner circle, but ultimately he broke away to form his own theory of psychology, which he termed individual psychology.

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Various applications -

Adlerian theory can be applied when treating a number of mental health conditions, from adjustment issues to eating disorders. It's not for everyone, however.

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Key idea -

One of the main tenets of Adlerian theory is that human behavior is goal-oriented. It therefore emphasizes therapy techniques that promote growth and resilience.

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Providing encouragement -

The first key technique of Adlerian therapy is providing encouragement. The therapist listens to their client and shows they care.

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Providing encouragement -

This is a basic, but very important, technique that helps people build confidence in their own ability to succeed.

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Creating expectations - The next key technique of Adlerian theory is creating expectations. The therapist may ask the client how they would behave if they were already the person they strive to be.

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Creating expectations -

This technique can help the client visualize and create the expectation of success, as well as overcome resistance to change.

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Questioning purpose -

An Adlerian therapist may also ask their client to reflect on the purpose of certain behaviors, i.e. what they are trying to achieve by behaving in a certain way.

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Questioning purpose -

Understanding the purpose behind maladaptive behaviors can often help people develop healthier coping strategies instead.

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Examining memories -

The final key technique used by Adlerian therapists is examining memories in order to understand previous patterns of behavior that may contribute to current problems.

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Examining memories -

By exploring several memories, therapists are often able to pick out particular themes that emerge.

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Main tenet -

Adlerian theory posits that people are always trying to reach specific goals. How exactly they do that will vary greatly from person to person.

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Broad application -

Research suggests that Adlerian theory can be helpful in treating a number of different mental health conditions.

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Conditions treated -

The conditions that it is currently used to treat include, but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, schizophrenia, and substance abuse problems.

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Other problems -

Adlerian techniques can also help people who are struggling with problems related to low self-esteem, loneliness, or negative thinking.

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Empowerment -

By affirming the individual and helping them rebuild social relationships, Adlerian therapy can empower people to pursue their goals and make healthy choices.

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Main benefit -

Indeed, one of the main benefits of Adlerian therapy is that it emphasizes community involvement and social interaction in order to promote personal growth.

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Another benefit -

Another key benefit of Adlerian theory is that it takes a holistic approach, meaning it considers both the client’s inner and outer worlds.

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Holistic approach -

By looking at things holistically, the Adlerian therapist helps the client understand more both about themselves and the way they fit into the world.

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No pathologization -

The third key benefit of Adlerian theory is that it avoids pathologizing people, i.e. characterizing them as suffering from a disease.

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Alternative approach -

Instead, it focuses on the way in which the difficulties and discouragement people experience in life can contribute to their subsequent psychological problems.

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Getting started -

If you are interested in the Adlerian approach to psychotherapy, the best place to start is by looking for a therapist who has training and experience with the theory.

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Looking online -

An online therapist directory can be a great way to locate a local therapist who has experience with Adlerian theory.

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Ask for a referral -

Alternatively, you could ask your doctor or healthcare provider for a referral to someone with expertise in the area.

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Take your time -

It is important that you spend some time talking to your therapist before deciding if it is the right treatment option for you.

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The therapeutic alliance -

According to Adlerian therapy, therapeutic alliance is critical for success. This means you must feel comfortable and safe working with your therapist.

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The bottom line -

Even if you ultimately decide not to pursue Adlerian therapy, chances are your treatment of choice may have been influenced by its ideas. Indeed, existential therapy, strategic therapy, and family therapy were all influenced by Adler’s ideas.

Sources: (Verywell Mind)

See also: What is family constellation therapy?

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