A conceptual framework for the practice of prescriptive eclecticism in psychotherapy.

Abstract

Recent surveys have indicated that many psychotherapists consider themselves to be eclectic in their approach to therapy. To date, however, there is no systematized framework to guide the practice of eclectic psychotherapy. This article presents a model of personalized therapy by focusing upon the broad clinical processes of theory, assessment, goal setting, intervention, and evaluation. Each of these processes is examined in an effort to elucidate variables at each level that are necessary for the practice of eclectic psychotherapy. The result is a framework and guidelines facilitating a logical, planful approach to individualized treatment. The implications of such a system are discussed.

Relationship Education Research: Current Status and Future Directions

“…Another important distinction is that relationship education is typically manualized, whereas therapy, as delivered in the community, is typically not manualized. Without a manual, practitioners are prone to following their own experiences and instincts (Dimond, Havens, & Jones, 1978), which may reduce the effectiveness of interventions. Relationship education’s manualized approach may make delivering research‐based interventions more accessible to practitioners (especially those with little prior experience with couples).…”

Self‐Critique Technique Training in a Competency‐Based Practicum

“…When aware of several response alternatives, the trainee is asked to trace his or her decision-making process. The appropriateness of the decision is judged in terms of its relevance to specified counseling process and outcome goals (Dimond, Havens, & Jones, 1978). The question is intended to increase the student's skill in considering possible consequences of various alternatives, and thus, to increase the use of careful decision-making in responding.…”

Ego Development and a General Model for Counseling and Psychotherapy

“…This growing eclecticism in practice has lead to a call for the development of a theoretical framework within which these various techniques can be integrated (Loew, 1975;. Dimond, Havens, & Jones, 1978).…”

“…To these trends should be added one more trend, the trend toward including the environment in planning and conducting therapy (Dimond et al, 1978). The controversy in personality research over the contribution of the personality versus the effect of the environment of behavior (Swensen, 1977a) has been resolved by concluding that both personality factors and environmental factors affect behavior.…”