A Closer Look at Reality Therapy: An Approach for Better Living

Reality therapy is a therapeutic approach that focuses on helping individuals control their own lives and make more effective decisions. Developed by Dr. William Glasser in the 1960s, this method is based on the principles of choice theory and highlights personal responsibility, direct problem-solving, and the development of fulfilling relationships.

The Principles of Reality Therapy

Reality therapy operates on the premise that all humans have inherent needs and their behaviors are attempts to meet these needs. It emphasizes the current moment and future actions rather than dwelling on past experiences.

The Five Basic Needs

Reality therapy outlines five basic human needs: survival, love and belonging, power, freedom, and fun. According to choice theory, all behavior is directed towards satisfying these needs, and difficulties arise when there's an inability to meet them effectively.

Personal Responsibility

Central to reality therapy is the concept of personal responsibility. Individuals are encouraged to understand that their actions are within their control, and they have the power to make different choices to create more satisfying lives.

The Process of Reality Therapy

Reality therapy is a process that emphasizes practical solutions and making plans for positive change. It's structured around the WDEP system - Wants, Doing, Evaluation, and Planning.

Identifying Wants and Needs

The first step in reality therapy is identifying what the individual wants and needs in life. This understanding provides a clear picture of the person's goals and the changes necessary to reach them.

Evaluating Current Behavior

Next, the individual and therapist examine the person's current behavior to evaluate whether it's helping them meet their identified wants and needs.

Making a Plan

Once the person has a clear understanding of their wants and their current behavior, they develop a specific plan to make more effective choices and actions.

Benefits of Reality Therapy

Reality therapy provides an array of benefits to individuals struggling with various issues, from addiction to relationship problems.

Enhances Problem-Solving Skills

One of the most notable benefits of reality therapy is its ability to enhance problem-solving skills. By focusing on current behaviors and future changes, individuals learn practical ways to tackle their challenges.

Fosters Personal Growth

Reality therapy promotes personal growth by encouraging individuals to take responsibility for their actions. This acknowledgment of personal power can boost self-esteem and foster a more optimistic outlook.

Understanding and applying the principles and techniques of reality therapy can empower individuals to make more satisfying choices and foster more fulfilling relationships. By focusing on the present and the future, this therapeutic approach provides a practical and effective path for positive change.

Grouport Offers Online Group Therapy & Online DBT Skills Group

Grouport Therapy provides online group therapy for anger management, anxiety, borderline personality, chronic illness, depression, dialectical behavior therapy, grief and loss, obsessive compulsive disorder, relationship issues and trauma and PTSD. Our licensed therapist leads weekly group sessions conducted remotely in the comfort of members' homes. According to participant feedback, 70% experienced significant improvements within 8 weeks.

You don't have to face these challenges alone. Join our community and work together towards a brighter future. Sign up for one of our courses today and begin your journey towards meaningful, lasting change and renewed hope.

Due to licensing restrictions, our online group therapy sessions are for Florida, New York, and New Jersey residents. If you are not a resident of either state, consider our dialectical behavior therapy skills group. It is a therapist-instructor-led online group that will teach you strategic new skills to replace behaviors and emotions causing friction in your daily life and relationships. It is excellent for interpersonal connections and building social skills concerning relationship issues.

Join a Group Support Session

We offer online group therapy, & each group has a personalized program of guidance, support, skills, and advice developed by our therapists.

Find my groupFind my groupFind my group

Space is limited, so reserve your seat today.