The Institute For Reality Therapy UK

Reality Therapy

Reality Therapy is principally a method of counselling, based on Choice Theory, that is highly focused, interactive and applicable to almost every area where counselling or psychotherapy is practiced. Additionally, the practical skills, ideas and approaches of Reality Therapy have also been successfully applied to many other areas, including teaching, coaching, mentoring, managing, supervising, relationships and self development (most notably in the areas of stress management, anger management and self esteem programmes).

The core of Reality Therapy is the idea that regardless of what has 'happened' to us, what we may have done, or how our needs may have been unmet or violated in the past, to be happy and effective we must live and plan in the present. It enables people to clarify how they can best fulfil their needs; to evaluate their own behaviours and make more effective and need satisfying choices, both now and in the future and, importantly, without infringing the needs of others.

Due to the emphasis of "Choice Theory in the practice of Reality Therapy" and how the ideas / concepts are so readily absorbed by clients, the teaching of 'Choice Theory' to the clients is now regarded as an essential part of Reality Therapy. Thus, clients are helped to meet their needs more effectively.

The practice of Reality Therapy is an ongoing process consisting of two major components -

1. Creating a trusting environment / relationship

2. Using procedures and techniques that enable the person / client to create positive change. The procedures that we teach in our workshops are those developed by Dr. Bob Wubbolding (Director Of Training for the William Glasser Institute) and referred to as the 'WDEP system'. This has proven to be not only an excellent 'teaching tool' but also something that can be taught to clients as an aid to self-development as well as personal problem solving.

Those interested in developing skills in Reality Therapy are recommended to consider participating in one of our workshops

What is the appeal of Reality Therapy?

The most common feedback from practitioners and students is that "it just works!" and additionally that "it makes so much sense to my clients as well as myself!"; comments not to be taken lightly! It is both efficient and straightforward and provides a clear structure for the practitioner. It respects the client, emphasizing his or her responsibility and choices. From the client's point of view, Reality Therapy is self-empowering. It does not continually delve into the client's past experiences or failures but looks forward to their making more "need-satisfying" choices today and in the future.

The ideas of choice Theory and Reality Therapy are practice worldwide, and there are Reality Therapy Associations in Canada, Australia, Israel, Japan, Ireland, Newzealand, Singapore, Croatia, Slovenia, Korea, as well as in the United States and here in the UK. The International Journal For Reality Therapy publishes papers written by practitioners and academics on all aspects Choice Theory, Reality Therapy and Lead Management. (details of which can be obtained from the IRT UK Administration)