There is a multitude of approaches to psychotherapy in clinical psychology. Most clinicians
attempt to integrate the four major theoretical models of psychodynamics, cognitive-behavioral,
humanistic, and family systems into treatments for their patients or clients, as well as addressing
these va...
There is a multitude of approaches to psychotherapy in clinical psychology. Most clinicians
attempt to integrate the four major theoretical models of psychodynamics, cognitive-behavioral,
humanistic, and family systems into treatments for their patients or clients, as well as addressing
these various approaches from a biological, psychological, and social perspective. Unidimensional
approaches have been limited in application toward the encompassing array of psychological
problems (Plante, 2011). Recent surveys indicate more integrative approaches within clinical
psychology. Eclecticism is a necessary means of convergence on an individual's unique situation.
According to Irving Weiner, "Effective psychotherapy is not defined by its brand name, but by
how well it meets the needs of the patient" (Plante, 2011, p. 138). Real-world situations are the
best way to witness the application of clinical psychology, as in the case of Nicole and her
experience with school phobia.
Case Study: Nicole’s School Phobia
Nicole is a young girl, aged 9, who lives alone with her mother. It has been many years
since the last contact with her father- who has never actually resided with her and her mother.
Within the last 12 months, Nicole and her mother have moved into an unfamiliar urban
environment where Nicole attends school as a fourth-grade student while her mother works full-
time as a Veterinary Assistant. Within the last several weeks, Nicole has become avoidant of
school. She has refused to go with excuses ranging from feeling sick to just wanting to stay home
to feeling scared to return (Plante, 2011). Being only 9 years old, Nicole is not able to stay home
alone, leaving her mother the burden of missing work or trying to find the occasional neighbor to
stay with her daughter. Unfortunately, there are no family members nearby. The school’s officials
are adamant about Nicole returning to school or beginning homeschool tutoring (Plante, 2011).
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