Question

Therapeutic perspectives:

Imagine that a friend of yours, Michael, is having depression that makes it difficult for him to get to class, to keep up with schoolwork, or to spend time with friends and family. He has very little energy, is often sad, and feels guilty for not doing what he should be doing in school.

He has recently begun to see a psychologist for his depression. For each of the following perspectives, describe how a psychologist might explain the origins of depression, and treat the depression that he is experiencing. You can speculate with your answers, keep in mind clear communication when sharing the therapeutic perspective.   

*Psychodynamic

*Cognitive

*Behavioral

*Humanistic

In a final paragraph, include Michael’s current symptoms, and when you think he should conclude his therapy.  

Answer 1

So from a Psychodynamic perspective, Michael would be treated largely on his repressed thoughts and conflicts. A therapist practicing Psychodynamic orientation is more likely to see the origins of his depression in his past. The therapist is more likely to identify depression as a result of unresolved conflicts and repressed memories of the childhood. In order to treat his depression, the therapist may use free association or dream interpretation.

A therapist using both a cognitive Perspective and a behavioral perspective is more likely to combine the two approaches. The therapist belonging to the two orientations are most likely to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The essence of this therapy is to make the client understand that the problematic behaviour is a result of the thoughts of the client. Thus a therapist using CBT will help Michael to understand his feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt and replace them with more positive thoughts. This change in thoughts is more likely to bring change in behaviour that will cure depression.

A therapist practicing Humanistic approach is more likely to use a Person-centered therapy to treat Michael. The focus of this therapy would be to make Michael understand that regardless of whatever has happened in his past, he himself is responsible for his condition and that he himself will have to work to get better. The therapist will provide Michael with empathy and acceptance. This will make Michael self aware and enable him to be in charge of his own problems and control them efficiently.

Lastly, all the therapist may combine the therapies mentioned for each approach with some medication. This medication may include antidepressants.

Michael's symptoms show that he is unable to function properly and has been facing problems in his interpersonal relationships. He is experiencing fatigue and loss of energy, feelings of worthlessness and guilt. Once Michael and his therapist feel that Michael is able to function better now and that he can get normal with his routine, they may seek to end the therapy in a while. He should conclude his therapy when he feels completely fine with his behaviour, thoughts and emotions.

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