Active learning ideas
This topic compares the 'Big Three' of psychotherapy. Psychodynamic therapy (Freud) focuses on bringing unconscious conflicts to the surface through techniques like 'Free Association'. Behavioural therapy focuses on unlearning bad habits through 'Systematic Desensitization' or 'Token Economies'. Cognitive therapy (like Ellis's REBT or Beck's therapy) focuses on identifying and changing 'irrational beliefs' that cause emotional distress.
Activity 01
Students pick a common fear (e.g., spiders). They work in pairs to create a 'Fear Hierarchy' of 10 steps, from 'seeing a cartoon spider' to 'holding one', learning how gradual exposure works.
How does psychoanalysis attempt to resolve unconscious conflicts?
Activity 02
Students act out a 'Cognitive Dispute'. A student gets a low grade (Activating Event), thinks 'I am a failure' (Belief), and feels depressed (Consequence). A 'Therapist' then helps them 'Dispute' the irrational belief.
What are the principles behind behavioural techniques like systematic desensitization?
Activity 03
Stations for Free Association (Psychodynamic), Token Economy (Behavioural), and Thought Recording (Cognitive). Students try a 5-minute 'mini-activity' at each station to understand the method.
How does cognitive therapy challenge irrational belief systems?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Psychoanalysis is a quick way to solve problems.
Traditional psychoanalysis can take years. Comparing 'Short-term Dynamic Therapy' with traditional methods helps students understand the evolution of the field.
Behaviour therapy is 'brainwashing'.
It is a collaborative process of learning new, healthier responses. Using 'Token Economy' examples from schools helps students see it as a common learning tool.
Methods used in this brief
Nature and Process of Psychotherapy
An introduction to the therapeutic relationship, the goals of psychotherapy, and the ethical standards required in clinical practice. Students will learn what makes the client-therapist alliance effective.
8 methodologies
Humanistic-Existential Therapy and Alternative Therapies
This topic explores client-centered therapy, Gestalt therapy, and the role of alternative therapies like yoga and meditation in mental health. Students will evaluate the focus on self-actualization and holistic healing.
8 methodologies