Does reality therapy promote collaboration between client and therapist?

Reality therapy fundamentally emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the client and the therapist. This approach is built on the premise that clients can only engage in meaningful change when they actively participate in their therapeutic process. Collaboration helps foster a strong therapeutic alliance, which is crucial for effective therapy.

In reality therapy, the therapist works alongside the client to identify needs and goals, promote personal responsibility, and strategize ways to fulfill those needs through effective choices. This partnership encourages clients to express their thoughts and feelings and feel empowered in their decision-making, making the therapeutic process more impactful and tailored to the individual’s unique context.

The concept of collaboration also aligns with the principles of Choice Theory, which underlines that individuals have control over their actions, thoughts, and feelings. By collaborating, both the therapist and client contribute to developing a plan that best suits the client’s needs, enhancing their sense of ownership over their therapy journey. This collaborative nature is what sets reality therapy apart from more directive approaches, where the therapist may take a leading role without focusing on the client’s input.