Developed in the early 1990’s as a result of the merging and blending of previously segregated approaches this ‘new kid on the block’ hybrid approach isn’t as well known or as mainstream as some of the other counselling modalities. Unlike CBT, Play therapy and perhaps person centred therapy, integrative therapy is not a particularly well known or talked about therapeutic approach.
So what is integrative therapy? The British Association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP) member Kate Megase explains what an integrative counsellor does and what to expect from integrative therapy:- “Every client who walks through the door is different. What works for one person might not work for another. As an integrative therapist, you can choose the right approach for the individual. I generally use a bit of everything. It’s all round support and makes therapy unique for that person”. The BACP goes on to state that “integrative Therapy gives you a safe space, without judgment, to help you explore your thoughts and feelings.You’ll go through a journey of self-discovery and increased self-awareness. First it’s about awareness, then acceptance and then change. It will help you to make healthier and better choices for yourself.”
Essentially integrative therapy may include elements of other approaches, such as person centred, CBT or psychodynamic. The therapist will draw on elements of particular approaches that will benefit the client. It can help with long term and short term problems including depression, anxiety, relationships and low self esteem.
Are there any drawbacks of intergrative therapy? In a simple term, yes. Like any other approach it has pros and cons. Probably the main criticism of integrative therapy is that it can sometimes feel a bit inconsistent for the client if the therapist is often ‘chopping and changing’ their approach. This is something as a therapist that I recognise as a danger and am aware of. I have developed techniques to evaluate and gauge advantages and disadvantages of introducing elements of other approaches. Despite that I strongly believe that the integrative approach is an extremely effective and positive form of therapy as I have witnessed improvement in my clients as have their family and friends.
