Week 6 Discussion Board
Compare and contrast the two therapies
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Reality Therapy share similar approaches that focus on
present behaviors and finding solutions. They differ in their core approaches. CBT focuses on
identifying and restructuring distorted thinking patterns that direct emotions and actions (Beck,
2011). Reality therapy helps clients take accountability in their own lives, enabling them to
achieve their goals and learn ways to meet their needs.
What are some of their strengths and weaknesses?
An area of strength in CBT is its structured, evidence-based framework. This is an effective
therapy for those who have a wide range of mental health issues, such as anxiety and
depression. CBT can come across as rigid and only focused on cognition, and avoiding digging
deeper into the relational and existential areas of the deep-rooted dysfunction of the mental
illness (Masoomeh Namjoo Aboosaeidi, 2022). Tan (2011,2022) writes, “Reality Therapy has
several strengths through versatility and adaptability which have produced amazing results in
reaching a diverse group of cultures and populations” (p.198). Reality Therapy’s strength is its
emphasis on accountability and the development of relationships, which brings the client hope
and a sense of connection to others (Wubbolding, 2015). A weakness of Reality Therapy is that
it does not address trauma or the unconsciousness of the client.
Which therapy would lend itself to Biblical integration?
Reality Therapy may lend itself to Biblical integration because it allows the client to make their
own choice by teaching the client the importance of relationships. A central theme in scripture
is the emphasis on personal accountability, such as repentance, growth, and the Biblical call to
love
God and others ( John 13:34). Cognitive Behavioral Therapy therapists must understand the
process of cognitive restructuring by avoiding imposing Western Christianity on those who
choose to worship another religion. This is also in alignment with the ACA Code of Ethics, as
stated in A. 4. b, this must be avoided, and when looking at scripture, Jesus did not impose
Himself onto those who chose to believe in their own traditions. (Pharisees, Sadducees, Scribes,
and Chief Priests. Acting as the Sanhedrin.)
What are some multicultural aspects to consider?
Counselors must consider the client’s culture when applying CBT. Cognitive restructuring can
affect the client’s traditions, beliefs, and worldview by imposing Western values and norms
(Hays, 2016). “In collectivist cultures, for instance, focusing on individual thought patterns may
need to be adapted to include family or community perspectives” (Hala Katato DO, 2025).
Lingering question
•For CBT: How can a therapist incorporate cognitive restructuring in a way that is
culturally appropriate by being spiritually sensitive with those who do not hold the same
spiritual beliefs as the therapist?
•For Reality Therapy: How do we uphold the principle of personal choice while
acknowledging the systemic and cultural factors that limit individual autonomy?
References:
Beck, J. S. (2011). Cognitive behavior therapy: Basics and beyond (2nd ed.). Guilford
Press.
Corey, G. (2021). Theory and practice of counseling and psychotherapy (10th ed.).
Cengage Learning.
Glasser, W. (1998). Choice theory: A new psychology of personal freedom.
HarperCollins.
Hala Katato, D. O., & Al-Awadhi, J. (2025). Evidence-based behavior therapy for
Tourette syndrome. Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 48(1), 77–89. https://doi.org/[insert
DOI if available]
Hays, P. A. (2016). Addressing cultural complexities in practice: Assessment, diagnosis,
and therapy (3rd ed.). American Psychological Association.
Hofmann, S. G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I. J., Sawyer, A. T., & Fang, A. (2012). The efficacy of
cognitive behavioral therapy: A review of meta-analyses. Cognitive Therapy and Research,
36(5), 427–440. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10608-012-9476-1
Namjoo Aboosaeidi, M., & Aboosaeidi, M. A. (2022). Comparison of the effectiveness of
positivist psychotherapy and reality therapy on cognitive disturbance and relapse anxiety in
addicts under treatment. DOAJ, 563–574.
Tan, S.-Y. (2011/2022). Counseling and psychotherapy: A Christian perspective. Baker
Academic.
Wubbolding, R. E. (2015). The voice of William Glasser: Accessing the continuing
evolution of reality therapy. Journal of Mental Health Counseling, 37(3), 189–205.
