After 35 years of experience, Dr. Glasser has now updated his original Reality Therapy. It now is based on his new theory of how people function, called Choice Theory. Because this theory eliminates what Dr. Glasser believes is a hindrance to therapy, talking about the past or focusing on the symptom, it is effective from the first session and can be completed in ten sessions or less with most clients.
William Glasser (2000) uses role-play with Marie who is simulating Paul, a male client from her place of employment. Paul has marriage problems. Marie, as Paul, is asked to role-play his wife. Glasser highlights choices, examines the client’s thinking, and focuses on responsible behavior. After the demonstration Glasser explains his work.
Topical Panel 04 from the Evolution of Psychotherapy 2000 - The Initial Interview
Featuring William Glasser, MD, Mary Goulding, MSW, Harriet Lerner, PhD, and Alexander Lowen, MD.
Moderated by Jon Carlson, Psy.D, Ed.D
Topical Panel 09 from the Evolution of Psychotherapy 2000 - Couple/Family Therapy
Featuring William Glasser, MD, John Gottman, PhD, Salvador Minuchin, PhD, and Peggy Papp, ACSW.
Moderated by Ruth McClendon, MSW
Reality Therapy is completely based on control theory psychology. Dr. Glasser will explain this psychology and then explain how all the techniques of this therapy arise from control theory. The major techniques he will explain are 1) All we do from birth to death is behave; 2) All behavior discussed in therapy is chosen; 3) All behavior is made up of four closely related components: acting, thinking, feeling and physiology; 4) While problems may originate in the past, they all occur in the present; 5) When problems are solved, it is because in the process of therapy, clients are taught to make better choices than they are making when they begin therapy.
Panel 14 from the Evolution of Psychotherapy 1995 - Role of the Therapist / Role of the Client
Featuring William Glasser, M.D.; Lynn Hoffman, A.C.S.W.; Ernest Rossi, Ph.D.; and Joseph Wolpe, M.D.
Moderated by Betty Alice Erickson, MS.
Educational Objectives:
To demonstrate that Reality Therapy can be successfully applied to any type of client.
To demonstrate that it can be applied to a couple.
William Glasser (1995) demonstrates with a simulated client who is in an emotionally abusive relationship. This client is depressed and unhappy with her life. The goal of the first session is to focus on a behavioral change that can be accomplished as a first step. Glasser concludes with an explanation of the demonstration and of control theory.