Adlerian Theory
Alfred Adler was a renowned psychologist who lived from 1870-1937. He corresponded with Freud in his initial interest with psychology, but quickly split off from both Freud and Jung to solidify his own therapy - "Individual Psychology". Ironically, he emphasized the importance of social community as benefiting the individual's mental health. He debated that "all problems are interpersonal problems" but also that all happiness comes from community feeling and interpersonal relationships. Fundamentally he believed that each human intrinsically has value and worth and can find contentment and happiness when adopting the philosophy he offers.
A core concept that I utilize from Adlerian psychology is that most of our negative behaviors and emotional states are SERVING us somehow. I know this may sound very offensive at the outset, but I really challenge each client to sit with this. Here's an example - Adler would argue that all anger is fabricated. When I first heard this I was a bit offended. I'm choosing to be angry when I get overwhelmed? But then I sat with it...YES. I do choose it! It's precisely because I get overwhelmed that I choose anger - when I'm angry I have an excuse to 'throw my hands up' and walk away from whatever is overwhelming me! It's my doorway to escape the task in front of me! Truly, this way of living takes great courage and can often make us need to be honest in a way that makes us uncomfortable. The truth is though, through courage you'll find freedom on the other side.
As you can probably see from my writing - I'm passionate about this approach and I love sharing it with clients. It's truly changed my life and ability to engage with the tasks I have in front of me each day. If you're interested in getting a better idea of this psychology before we meet, please look at my resource page where I highlight the book "The Courage to be Disliked".
If reading about this theory excites you, let's get started!