Integrative Approaches: Overview

Integrative therapies consist of a broad range of therapeutic approaches that are not confined by the “pure forms” of a single theoretical framework. Although the various integrative psychotherapies are quite diverse, all of them share a similar goal— that of transcending a “one-size-fits-all” mentality and incorporating sundry ways of conceptualizing and intervening so that the applicability, effectiveness, and efficiency of psychotherapy are enhanced. Although the previous proliferation and fragmentation of literally hundreds of therapies had clearly become unmanageable, a clear consensus has emerged that no single integrative approach has demonstrated superiority over other integrative approaches. Thus, most integrative therapists emphasize the process of continued exploration and development of psychotherapy integration, rather than the establishment of a dominant integrative approach. In fact, all of the leaders ...