Assignment Overview

Counselors face a variety of different clients throughout their careers. Working with clients is at first intimidating for new counselors. However, counselors who have an understanding of theories and have thought about their own theoretical orientation have a good start on effectively serving their clients. So far in the course, you have studied and read about many of the major theories of counseling and psychotherapy. In this assignment you will further analyze the “Stan” client case study and apply two of the theories covered in this course to the case. This assignment asks you to examine how counselors conceptualize client issues and prepare treatment options.

Assignment Instructions

You will select two theories of counseling and psychotherapy studied in Chapters 4–14 of your Corey text to describe and analyze. You will then apply the two theories to The Case of Stan (See Chapter 1 of the Corey text for the case study). The areas you should focus on when analyzing the theory are listed below. This APA-style paper should be 6–8 pages (excluding references and title page). Select the supporting sources of information carefully, using the most relevant and applicable information.

Part One: Theoretical Analysis

• Briefly describe the theory’s origins (background, how was it developed, who created it) and basic philosophies (its view of human nature, theory of change, view of psychopathology, the role of the counselor).
• Explain how the theories align with your own philosophy, values, and views of the therapeutic process.
• Evaluate the research evidence supporting the theories, with an example from a current study.
• Analyze and discuss the appropriateness of the theories for diverse populations.

Part Two: Theoretical Application

• Describe goals you will work on with Stan (make sure the goals align with the chosen therapeutic approaches).
• Identify and explain interventions and techniques you will use with Stan, based on your theoretically established goals. Be very specific. Assume that you will have up to three sessions with him.
• Address cultural considerations you will keep in mind while using the therapeutic approaches with Stan.
• Discuss strengths and limitations of using the theories with Stan.

Additional Requirements

• Your paper should be 6–8 pages in length.
• Write your paper in APA-style essay format.
• Include at least five peer-reviewed, scholarly articles from the Capella library databases, and the textbook for a total of at least six sources.

Your assignment will be scored on the following criteria:

• Apply major theories to philosophy, values, and views of the therapeutic process.
• Evaluate the research evidence supporting the theories.
• Analyze the appropriate application of theories for diverse populations.
• Create a theory-based intervention or treatment plan for Individual client.
• Address cultural considerations for a specific therapeutic approach.
• Examine the strengths and limitations of theoretical approaches to specific client relationships.
• Write coherently to support a central idea with correct grammar, usage, and mechanics as expected of a psychology professional.
• Successfully implement APA style.

Review the Case Study Analysis Scoring Guide for additional information.