My Evolving Theory:

Jan 8, 2014, 8:26 PM As I begin this term I am reminded of my initial goals when I entered this program. I wanted to gain an understanding of psychological theory and how integrating it into practice could help me to become a better counsellor. Though I
Compass

was familiar with some theory and had experience utilizing tools from various modalities, I often felt like I was guiding others without a compass. Throughout the program I have definitely gained a much greater understanding about the nature of theory, how it describes human nature and the process of change. During our CAAP 601 course, I felt my theoretical orientation could be best described as an

integrated approach, threading common factors of Adlerian,

Existential and CBT theories. Each values a collaborative, egalitarian relationship with the client. They are phenomenological, view humans through a teleological lens, as holistic beings, shaped by both hereditary and environmental factors, with a nature that is creative, selfdetermined and pursued throughout the lifespan in the process of becoming. While the philosophical stance and basic assumptions continue to resonate for me, at this stage of my last practicum, I wonder, is this theory really reflected in my practice? In other words am I really walking my own

talk? This notion has given rise to some self-doubt, whether I really

practice from a integrated, common factors perspective, incorporating Adlerian, Existential and CBT into my workand how is theory reflected

in my practice? These thoughts proved to be unsettling and incongruent

with the view of myself as

Week 2
January 15, 2014

My Evolving Theory: This week reminded me about the biopsychosocial approach introduced in Health Psychology, and the kaleidoscope of factors impacting a persons
life as described in the Equity and Diversity course. In both of these frameworks, there are multiple intersecting components contributing to health and wellbeing or a lack thereof. As I consider my clients, I realize that I often think about various factors including social, psychological, cultural, biological and spiritual when I am assessing their strengths and challenges. I am considering how this framework integrates with my previous theoretical influences.

Week 3
January 21, 2014

My Evolving Theory: This week, both in practicum and in portfolio, we

have been challenged to consider and succinctly articulate our Theoretical

OrientationThough I have settled on the fact that I have an integrated

approach drawing from Adlerian, Existential and Cognitive Behavioural theories, this process of contemplation has me thinking about how theory is

reflected in my practice. How do I

integrate these theories? What is my overarching framework?

Where do biopsychosocial and narrative approaches fit in? I value the collaborative, egalitarian stance represented in my foundation theories. I like the idea of helping people learn to become their own therapists. I recognize the possibility for growth and changebut am mindful that there are forces at work that make this easier for some than others i.e. systems, culture, gender, class etc. I am currently struggling to articulate how these various theories come together to form a cogent personal theoretical orientation.

And Finally

Week 9 & 10
March 7th & 13th, 2014

My Evolving TheoryPreparing for my

integrative case study reinforced my view that a biopsychosocial approach can provide a solid framework to inform conceptualization.

The client I chose to present at the final seminar has a complex array of factors contributing to her current difficulties. Conceptualizing from a biopsychosocial framework guided my thinking. It prompted me to take a wide view of the clients challenges and helped me to explore the relevant literature speaking to causal factors, and appropriate methods to intervene.