Reality therapy is a counseling method that emphasizes the individual’s ability to make choices and improve the present aspects of their life. In the case of Gwen, the therapist applies several interventions to help the client evaluate her current behavior. For instance, during one of the sessions, the counselor asks Gwen to describe her desired life. This technique allows individuals to identify their quality world with the main goals and visions (Corey et al., 2020). According to Loggins (2021), the perceived world is characterized as more subjective and based on past events and experiences. The comparison of the two concepts is another reality therapy intervention used by Gwen’s therapist. The woman began to attend yoga classes to achieve her goal of reducing body aches and feeling relaxed. As can be seen, the client becomes more satisfied when the gap between the quality world and the perceived world decreases.
Self-evaluation is another essential technique that Gwen’s therapist implements during the session. A reality check helps the client evaluate whether her current behavior should continue and ensure that her choices contribute to her goals. In particular, Gwen can see that the habit of taking on too many responsibilities worsens her quality of life and prevents her from feeling more relaxed, which is one of her long-term objectives. Self-evaluation and the therapist’s non-judgmental approach encourage Gwen to try new behaviors and make different choices to achieve her mental health objectives. Finally, action planning is another critical intervention utilized by the counselor who provides the client with a book recommendation to plan different areas of her life. By focusing on several helpful activities, Gwen can reduce her anxiety and cause positive changes in her life. Overall, reality therapy can be beneficial due to its focus on individual choices and behaviors to promote change and development.
References
Corey, G., Haynes, R. H., Moulton, P., & Muratori, M. (2020). Clinical supervision in the helping professions: A practical guide (3rd ed.). John Wiley & Sons.
Loggins, B. (2021). What is reality therapy? Verywell Mind. Web.