Applying Psychoanalysis and Adlerian Theories to Olivia: A Case Study

Applying Psychoanalytic and Adlerian Theories to Olivia: A Case Study

Discussion: Psychoanalytic or Adlerian

Goals with Psychoanalytical and Adlerian Approaches

Psychoanalytical Approach Goals:
The primary goals when using a psychoanalytical approach are to uncover and address unconscious conflicts that contribute to Olivia’s symptoms of anxiety and depression. This involves exploring repressed memories, childhood experiences, and latent emotions to bring awareness and resolution. Olivia’s recurring dream of falling, feelings of inadequacy, and unresolved relationship with her father may reflect unconscious processes affecting her current struggles. Key goals include:

1. Understanding the symbolic meaning of her dreams and their connection to unresolved conflicts.
2. Helping Olivia confront and process emotions surrounding her father’s favoritism toward her sister.
3. Addressing guilt and feelings of being “not good enough” as a mother and person.

Adlerian Approach Goals:
From an Adlerian perspective, the focus would be on fostering a sense of belonging, overcoming feelings of inferiority, and developing purposeful life goals. The goals include:

1. Encouraging Olivia to develop self-worth and confidence as a mother and individual.
2. Helping her rebuild a sense of community and social connectedness, especially given her disconnection from the church and feelings of isolation.
3. Guiding her to take proactive steps toward creating a fulfilling life, including exploring meaningful career opportunities and nurturing her children.

Role of the Counselor and Client

Psychoanalytical Perspective:
The counselor takes on the role of an interpreter and guide, helping Olivia uncover and make sense of her unconscious conflicts. The therapeutic relationship emphasizes transference, allowing Olivia to project feelings related to past relationships (e.g., her father) onto the therapist. Olivia’s role is to explore her inner world through free association and dream analysis.

Adlerian Perspective:
The counselor’s role is more collaborative, acting as a mentor to empower Olivia. The focus is on identifying and re-framing her negative beliefs, encouraging her to develop a sense of agency. Olivia’s role is to actively engage in goal-setting and to participate in social interest activities that rebuild her connection to others.

Interventions and Techniques

Psychoanalytical Approach:

1. Dream Analysis: Analyzing Olivia’s recurring dream of falling to uncover unconscious fears and unresolved conflicts.
2. Free Association: Encouraging Olivia to express her thoughts and feelings without censorship to reveal hidden emotions.
3. Transference Work: Exploring Olivia’s feelings toward the counselor as a means to understand her unresolved feelings toward her father and husband.

Adlerian Approach:

1. Lifestyle Assessment: Identifying patterns in Olivia’s life that contribute to her feelings of inferiority.
2. Encouragement Strategies: Building Olivia’s confidence by reframing her perceived failures and highlighting her strengths as a mother.
3. Community Engagement: Encouraging Olivia to reconnect with her church community or other support networks to alleviate feelings of isolation.

Integrating a Biblical Perspective

Psychoanalytical Approach:
From a biblical perspective, the counselor can integrate spiritual practices such as prayer and scripture to help Olivia process guilt and feelings of inadequacy. Exploring themes of forgiveness and grace could complement the psychoanalytic focus on resolving past conflicts and fostering self-acceptance.

Adlerian Approach:
The Adlerian emphasis on social interest aligns closely with biblical teachings on community and service. Encouraging Olivia to re-engage with her faith and church community can help her find meaning and purpose. Scriptures highlighting her inherent worth as a child of God can bolster her self-esteem and counter feelings of inferiority.

Compatibility with a Biblical Worldview:

• Psychoanalysis may face some challenges aligning with a biblical worldview due to its focus on unconscious drives and its less explicit emphasis on spiritual growth.
• Adlerian theory’s focus on purpose, community, and overcoming inferiority aligns more naturally with Christian principles.

Choosing Between the Two Theories

If forced to choose, the Adlerian approach better fits Olivia’s needs. Its focus on fostering belonging, rebuilding self-worth, and setting purposeful goals addresses her current challenges more practically. Additionally, its compatibility with her desire to reconnect with her faith makes it a more holistic choice. As a counselor, I am also more comfortable with the collaborative and strengths-based nature of Adlerian therapy, which emphasizes empowerment and proactive change.