FEMINIST THEORY

FEMINIST THEORY

KEY CONCEPTS:

“Core principles of feminist therapy are that the personal is political, therapists have a commitment to social change, women’s voices and ways of knowing are valued and women’s experiences are honored, the counseling relationship is egalitarian, therapy focuses on strengths and a reformulated definition of psychological distress, and all types of oppression are recognized” (Gerald & Corey, 2013).

PEOPLE ASSOCIATED WITH THE THEORY:

Jean Baker Miller, MD

Carolyn Zerbe Enns, PhD

Oliva M. Espin, PhD

Laura S. Brown, PhD

GOALS OF THE THEORY:

“To bring about transformation both in the individual client and in society.  To assist clients in recognizing, claiming, and using their personal power to free themselves from the limitations of gender-role socialization.  To confront all forms of institutional policies that discriminate or oppress on any basis” (Gerald & Corey, 2013).

TECHNIQUES USED:

“Although techniques from traditional approaches are used, feminist practitioners tend to employ consciousness-raising techniques aimed at helping clients recognize the impact of gender-role socialization on their lives.  Other techniques frequently used include gender-role analysis and intervention, power analysis and intervention, demystifying therapy, bibliography, journal writing, therapist self-disclosure, assertiveness training, reframing and relabeling, cognitive restructuring, identifying and challenging untested beliefs, role playing, psychodramatic methods, group work, and social action” (Gerald & Corey).

RELATED VIDEO(S):