Alisa Houseknecht Ph.D., NCC, CRC

Counseling Philosophy​

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            I believe the purpose of counseling is to help clients discover their potential and empower them to create meaning and purpose in their lives. My philosophy of counseling is based on the integration of the core conditions of person-centered therapy (Rogers, 1957) with evidence-based interventions from cognitive behavior therapy (Beck, 1963) and rational-emotive behavioral therapy (Ellis, 1955). My integration of these theories allows me to meet the needs of diverse clients with a wide range of problems and life circumstances.

            My theory of counseling is guided by Rogers (1957) belief that significant positive change can only occur in the context of a relationship. Rogers (1957) core beliefs of unconditional positive regard, empathy, and genuineness are at the center of my counseling philosophy. I believe the role of the therapeutic relationship is to (a) develop rapport with clients, (b) let clients express themselves fully, and (c) show clients that they are worthwhile and capable of change. I encourage clients to take responsibility for their lives by creating an accepting atmosphere that communicates the core conditions.

            In counseling, I take on the role of collaborator, teacher, and facilitator. My goal is to help my clients express their feelings, identify rational and irrational beliefs, formulate goals, and develop action plans that will allow them to live more satisfying lives. I integrate evidence-based interventions from cognitive behavior therapy and rational-emotive behavior therapy to address the diverse needs of clients. When working with clients, I remain aware of their unique life circumstances and implement multiculturally-appropriate interventions that are compatible with their worldviews.

            In summary, my counseling philosophy is based on an integrative theoretical orientation that combines tenets of person-centered therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and rational-emotive behavior therapy. I believe clients come to therapy with unique environmental, biological, and multicultural factors. An integrative approach allows me to tailor my practice to the unique needs of diverse clients.

References

Beck, A. T. (1963). Thinking and depression: I. Idiosyncratic content and cognitive distortions. Archives of General Psychiatry, 9,

324-333.

Ellis, A. (1955). New Approaches to Psychotherapy Techniques. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 11, 207-260.

Rogers, C. R. (1957). The necessary and sufficient conditions of therapeutic personality change. Journal of Consulting Psychology,

21, 95-103.