Token Economy technique

This technique is used a positive reinforcement. Clients are given a token every time they perform the desired behavior. After earning a certain amount, these tokens are then turned in for a reinforcer. The reinforcer is viewed as something to work towards by the client. First, specific behaviors are discussed. Next, rules are created and discussed. Then, the counselor and client discuss the tokens, reinforcers, and how they are earned. A variation of this technique is a response cost system and this is where the client not only receive tokens for positive behaviors, but they also get tokens taken away when they behave inappropriately.  This strategy is different because it is based upon punishment. I think this would work well in counseling sessions outside of a school setting. I think this would be getting into too much for school counselors.

Behavior Chart

Behavior charts focus on correcting specific behaviors by using positive and/or negative reinforcement. First, the specific behaviors must be understood and discussed. Next, the counselor and client must come up with a rating scale and clearly state the desired behaviors and when monitoring will occur on the behavior chart.  After creating the chart, then the counselor and client decide what the consequences will be and how the client will earn them. I think this technique would be effective when trying to diminish negative behaviors in a classroom setting, such as students speaking without raising their hands. This is a great way to reinforce positive behavior.

Thought stopping technique

This technique is used with clients who have persisting thoughts that are unwanted. The counselor must teach them to interrupt these thoughts while they are occurring, which will then lead to fewer occurrences. This process also allows the client to gain control what their thoughts. There are four steps that take place in this process: (1) deciding which thoughts are going to be stopped; (2) the clients closes his eyes and imagines a situation in which this thought is likely to take place; (3) once the thought comes to the client's mind, the client uses the command "stop"; (4) the client replaces the unwanted thought with a more positive thought. A variation of this technique is used when the command "stop" does not work for the client. In this case, the client can use another form that will help deter the thought, such as a loud buzzer or pinching themselves. This technique can be applied in cases dealing with obsession, phobias, or fears.  I think this technique could be helpful, but it most be practiced repeatedly before seeing significant results.

Self-talk technique

When counselors propose the self-talk technique, they encourage the client to use positive affirmations and supportive language in order to help them through a difficult situation. However, self-talk can be both positive or negative, depending on the client's influencers in his/her life. Negative self-talk is usually self-defeating and can weigh a person down emotionally. This can then interfere with the client's life by keeping him/her from reaching their full potential and goals. Positive self-talk helps motivate the client by diminishing self-defeating thoughts and replacing them with positive thoughts that will provide encouragement. The two variations of this technique are the P and Q method and instant replay. Before a client is taught this technique, they must be open to the idea of self-talk and developing a positive self-concept. This technique is commonly seen in cases of perfectionism, self esteem, and anger management.  I could see this technique being applied with clients who contain unrealistic thoughts of themselves or their abilities.

Role Play Technique

Role play takes place in the present and does not focus on the past or future. This begins with acting out roles that are simple, and then procedes to roles that are more difficult to act out. The four elements within role playing, which are the encounter, the stage, and doubling. The three phases found within role playing are warm-up, action, and sharing and analysis. Variations of role play are behavioral rehearsal and the empty chair technique. I would imagine this technique to be useful with family relationships, romantic relationships, and friendships. It helps someone see another's perspective and can help them better relate to one another. Some people may feel uncomfortable acting something out, but that can also be effective in breaking them out of their shell. When working with children, it can be helpful for them to dress in costumes in order to portray a role more accurately. This technique could be applied when working with both individuals and groups. Counselors most often apply this technique when they have clients who would like to change something about themselves. I think role play is a great way to gain a different perspective and change a certain way of thinking.

Behavioral Rehearsal Technique

Clients are taught behavioral rehearsal when they are in need of learning a new type of behavior. When this is being taught, the behavior is modeled, the counselor gives feedback, and the new behavior is practiced often. Typically this process includes the counselor playing the role of someone in the client's life who produces stress and anxiety for the client.  The client then role plays appropriate actions and practices how to communicate his/her thoughts and feelings effectively. By practicing this technique, the client is more likely to incorporate his/her newly learned behavior into his/her everyday life. This technique is commonly applied with clients who are dealing with anger, anxiety, and depression. Some variations of this technique include encouraging the client to practice in front of a mirror and encouraging the client to videotape himself/herself while practicing. Changing a behavior that you have become accustomed to can be very difficult, so I think this technique is a great way to get the client on the right track.

Modeling Technique

Modeling occurs when one person observes another and then imitates what he has just observed. There are three types of modeling: overt modeling, symbolic modeling, and covert modeling. There are three types of responses that are produced from modeling: an observation learning effect, inhibitory effects or disinhibitory effects, and response facilitation effects. There are four subprocesses that must exist prior to modeling being demonstrated: attention, retention, reproduction, and motivation.  Before implementing this technique, the counselor and client must agree on a different behavior to take the place of the current one. The counselor explains the steps along the way and may assign homework for the client to practice. This technique is used to eliminate self-defeating thoughts. After reading about this technique, I thought it would be very helpful in cases of reducing stress and practicing social skills.