Psychotherapy with individual

Running head: WEEK 10 JOURNAL ENTRY 1

WEEK 10 JOURNAL ENTRY 2

Week 10 Journal Entry

Name

Institution

Week 10 Journal Entry

Therapeutic Theory

I can say that my therapeutic theory has not changed as a result practicum experiences. My initial therapeutic theory was a cognitive behavioural theory (CBT). I have interacted with several clients with different conditions that require therapy. I have realized that each client presents unique problems that require critical assessment before making a decision on the appropriate therapeutic theory. Through this experience, I have realized that the cognitive behavioural theory is effective in helping clients presenting various mental conditions. I was able to help my clients using various forms of CBT. CBT aims to enhance a patient mental health by changing the way they think. The theory focuses on changing irrational cognitive behaviour and distortion, thereby enhancing emotional control to help a patient confront the presenting problems. The counsellor/client relationship developed during CBT sessions is significant in determining the treatment outcome (González-Prendes & Resko, 2011).

Integration of the Therapeutic Approaches

This course exposed me to different kinds of therapeutic approaches, which were very much applicable to my clinical practice. In practice, each patient presents a unique condition that requires may personalized treatment. Integrating different therapeutic approaches is essential in enhancing the treatment approach. The goals I developed in week one was to adopt an appropriate therapeutic model that would enhance my reasoning skills and therapeutic communication with the client. I found interpersonal therapy to be effective especially on depressed patients. This theory focuses on resolving interpersonal issues and symptomatic recovery. Using this approach enable me to guide my patients towards their therapeutic goals to restore their cognitive functioning.

My Impact on Social Change

Mental disorders are common health problems that affect millions of people in the United States. Most of these conditions can be treated and the patients are able to regain their cognitive function. However, the majority of people with mental illness face stigmatization from their family members, friends as well as a healthcare professional (CDC, 2011). People with mental illness especially those with severe cognitive impairment require support from their family members and society. As a nurse, I have a special position to inform the society about the effect of supporting patients with mental illness on their treatment outcome. Awareness regarding mental illness is necessary to change the perception of society towards people with mental illness.

References

Fact Sheet MIS CDC. (2011). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealthsurveillance/fact_sheet.html

González-Prendes, A. A., & Resko, S. M. (2012). Cognitive-Behavioral Theory. Trauma: Contemporary Directions in Theory, Practice, and Research, 14-40. doi:10.4135/9781452230597.n2

Wheeler, K. (Ed.). (2014). Psychotherapy for the advanced practice psychiatric nurse: A how-to guide for evidence-based practice (2nd ed.). New York, NY: Springer Publishing Company.