Discuss the use of eclectic approaches to treatment

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Discuss the use of eclectic approaches to
treatment

• By Mr Daniel Hansson

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• The eclectic approach An approach that combines
  two or more techniques for treatment. The
  treatment is adapted to suit the needs of the
  individual or group

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Examples of eclectic approaches

• Gestalt therapy is often considered as eclectic
  as it uses many different techniques
• Combining drug therapy and cognitive therapy for
  treatment of depression
• Combining cognitive and behavioral therapy (CBT)
  for treatment of depression
• Combining Chinese herbal medicine and
  antidepressants for treatment of depression

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Different types of eclectical approaches

• Simultaneous use Use of the therapies at the
  same time
• Sequential use Either therapy is used at one
  time
• Stage-oriented use One therapy is used during
  the critical stage, the other therapies are used
  at the maintenance stage

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Supporting studies

• Jing-Feng Hong Xue (2002)
• Peterson (2006)

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Advantages

• Is supported by the biopsychosocial
  stress-vulnerability models
• Offers a greater flexibility in treatment
• Treatment can be modified to suit individual
  needs
• Less reductionist, more likely to address more
  facets of a problem
• Empowers the patient. Patient can choose his
  treatment (more ethical)
• Shares the strengths of both therapies

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Limitations

• Requires more of the therapist. The therapist
  needs to be an expert of several therapies
• Share the weaknesses of both therapies
• May be unsystematic and unfocused