A Principle-Based Approach to Psychotherapy Integration

Abstract

A principle-based approach to integration provides a framework for identifying common change processes that may exist among different theoretical orientations. This chapter identifies five change principles that are common across orientations and are supported by outcome research: fostering the patient’s hope, positive expectations, and motivation; facilitating the therapeutic alliance; increasing the patient’s awareness and insight; encouraging corrective experiences; and emphasizing ongoing reality testing. By focusing on these change principles, therapists have the flexibility to select a variety of techniques that are responsive to the client’s individual needs and preferences. The chapter also provides examples of techniques that support each principle and illustrates principle-based psychotherapy with a case example. The authors concludes by reviewing the research evidence and suggesting future directions for this approach.