Theory

Theories

Gestalt theory emphasizes the importance of the present moment and the individual's
responsibility for their actions. The existential-humanistic approach emphasizes the importance
of an individual's subjective experience and the role of their perceptions, emotions, and
behaviours in shaping their understanding of the world. Finally, Logotherapy is based on the
belief that the search for meaning is the primary motivator in an individual's life and that
discovering meaning can bring about healing and personal growth. A review of the strengths and
limitations, ethical, legal, or multicultural considerations of these theories and provide insights
drawn from our critical analysis is given thoughtful consideration.
Strengths and Limitations

Gestalt Theory
One strength of Gestalt theory is its emphasis on the importance of the present moment
and the individual's subjective experience. This focus can help individuals better understand and
process their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours in the present moment rather than being stuck
in the past or worrying about the future (Halbur & Halbur, 2019). One potential limitation of
Gestalt theory is that it may need to adequately address the role of societal and cultural
influences on an individual's thoughts, emotions, and behaviours (Sills & Joyce, 2018). While it
acknowledges the importance of the individual's subjective experience, it may need to adequately
address the impact of external factors on an individual's development and well-being.
Existential-Humanistic Theory
The theory emphasizes the individual's capacity for self-determination and growth. By
encouraging individuals to take ownership of their lives and pursue their goals and dreams, the
Existential-Humanistic approach can help individuals develop a sense of agency and control in

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their lives (Sommers-Flanagan & Sommers-Flanagan, 2018). One potential limitation of the
Existential-Humanistic view is that it may need to adequately address the role of societal and
cultural influences on an individual's development and well-being. While it acknowledges the
importance of the individual's subjective experience, it may need to adequately address the
impact of external factors on an individual's development and well-being.
Logotherapy Theory
It is important to note that the theory focuses on the importance of meaning and purpose
in an individual's life. By helping individuals find meaning and purpose, Logotherapy can
provide a sense of direction and motivation. It can benefit individuals struggling with mental
health issues such as depression and anxiety (Halbur & Halbur, 2019). Regarding its drawbacks,
the theory may need to adequately address the role of societal and cultural influences on an
individual's development and well-being. While it acknowledges the importance of meaning and
purpose in an individual's life, it may need to adequately address the impact of external factors
on an individual's development and well-being.

Ethical, Legal and Multicultural Considerations

There are several ethical considerations when using Gestalt, Existential-Humanistic, or
Logotherapy theories in counselling practice. One ethical consideration is respecting an
individual's autonomy and self-determination (Halbur & Halbur, 2019). Counsellors using these
approaches should ensure that they are not imposing their values and beliefs onto their clients but
rather helping clients explore and discover their values and beliefs. Another ethical consideration
is maintaining the confidentiality and protecting an individual's privacy. Counsellors using these
approaches should ensure they are not disclosing confidential information about their clients
without their consent.

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There are also several legal considerations when using Gestalt, Existential-Humanistic, or
Logotherapy theories in counselling practice. One legal consideration is the need to adhere to
relevant laws and regulations governing the practice of counselling, such as HIPAA and state
licensing requirements (Sills & Joyce, 2018). Counsellors using these approaches should ensure
that they comply with all relevant laws and regulations (Sommers-Flanagan & Sommers-
Flanagan, 2018). It is also vital to consider multicultural considerations when using Gestalt,
Existential-Humanistic, or Logotherapy theories in counselling practice. Counsellors using these
approaches should be aware of


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