Psychological integration: Transtheoretical versus Merging/blending Theories
The underlying principle behind psychotherapy integration is that unitary theoretical models are often inadequate in addressing patients’ unique needs. However, it is essential to acknowledge that integrating different theories is a complicated process as several factors (i.e., complications, contradictions, reverberations, and implications) need to be considered (Beutler et al., 2016). These dynamics and other client’s factors would, at times, cause a therapist to go beyond established theoretical faiths.
Usually, psychotherapists apply integrative approaches based on experience, skills, and knowledge. They are traditionally prescriptive in merging available theories whereby the “best fit” approaches are used. Furthermore, general literature and studies indicate notable efficacy in integrative approaches (both in merging and blending theoretical models). When it comes to the transtheoretical model, a factor of inclusiveness across theories is introduced. According to Raihan and Cogburn (2020), the transtheoretical model (TTM) identifies key constructs of general theories, integrates, and conceptualizes them to various behaviors. TTM is a shift from identifying “best” interventions among many to selecting elements across all theories for a comprehensive model applicable in several behavior change interventions.
In appreciation of pluralism for practice, I ascertain the principle behind TTM is transformative. More so, a diverse range of psychotherapy techniques is beneficial to both the field and clients. A transtheoretical approach is poised to generate psychotherapeutic benefits since all crucial principles are synthesized in a single treatment plan. However, I have been more aligned in blending theories (after empirical verification) during practice. My approach has to been to distill aspects of various therapeutic processes, mostly two, in developing an effective intervention for my clients. This approach is much simpler than the transtheoretical method, as it may prove challenging to harmonize concepts from numerous disparate theories. Also, the model may be arising from fundamentals that are entirely contradicting.
References
Beutler, L., Someah, K., Kimpara, S., & Miller, K. (2016). Selecting the most appropriate treatment for each patient. International Journal Of Clinical And Health Psychology, 16(1), 99-108. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijchp.2015.08.001
Raihan, N., & Cogburn, M. (2020). Stages of Change Theory. Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved 27 September 2020, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556005/.