A Model for Teaching Psychotherapy Theory Through an Integrative Structure

This article discusses a model for teaching psychotherapy theory through an integrative structure from the start of graduate students' training. This model articulates an ordering structure for the reputed 400+ so-called "theories" of psychotherapy. The rationale for such a structure highlights one dimension among several-that is, the recognition that a vast majority of mental health practitioners describe their orientation as eclectic or integrative. Professionals in training are encouraged to use this structure as an organizing principle to create the underpinnings for future professional development. The structure informs all aspects of a graduate-level course, including its syllabus, the textbooks selected, the reader, learning objectives, and tools for learning outcome assessment.