Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Reality Therapy which is based on the Choice theory, are two notable frameworks which inform counselors’ approaches. The two theories have both similarities and differences, which need to be discussed in detail. For instance, both CBT and Reality Therapy focus on the present problems of the person, and they are oriented towards finding effective solutions in a fast manner (Stefan et al., 2019). Both therapies share the same goal of assisting people in discovering new techniques and perspectives, allowing them to address their issues. At the same time, CBT and Reality Therapy differ in terms of their approach to people. CBT embraces a narrow view of individuals and considers only their thoughts and feelings, while Reality Therapy takes into account the environment of the person. The strengths of CBT are its focus on humans’ thoughts and core problems, while its limitation is its narrow scope. Reality Theory’s strengths include broad applicability and a high degree of effectiveness, yet its limitation is the absence of focus on past events.
CBT is compatible with Christian concepts and can be used effectively together with them. CBT integrated with Christian principles must highlight the significance of agape love and promote empathic relationships with clients. CBT also implies using spiritual aspects of life which can be explored in accordance with God’s wisdom. Reality Therapy also promotes Christian concepts such as agape love and responsibility and choice. Yet, it is not consistent with the Biblical perspective that humans do not have an absolute capacity to choose and change, relying only on their strengths (Tan, 2011). In terms of creating measurable outcomes, CBT considers the role of irrational, negative, and illogical thinking in psychopathology, yet identifying them correctly is the main limitation. Reality Therapy, in its turn, views choices as the sources of psychological symptoms, therefore when creating measurable outcomes, the ability to determine certain choices as right or wrong.
References
Stefan, S., Cristea, I., Tatar, A., & David, D. (2019). Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for generalized anxiety disorder: Contrasting various CBT approaches in a randomized clinical trial. Clinical Psychology, 75(7), 1188–1202. Web.
Tan, S. (2011). Counseling and psychotherapy: A Christian perspective. Baker Academic.