Counseling Theories Practice Test

Reality therapy is a counseling approach created by William Glasser. He developed Choice Theory and Reality Therapy in the 1960s to help people focus on their present behavior and take responsibility for making better choices to meet their basic needs, such as belonging, power, freedom, fun, and survival. The emphasis is on what the client can do now to affect their life, rather than digging into past events or relying on external rewards. A practical tool often used with this approach is the WDEP process—clarifying what the person Wants, what they’re Doing, evaluating whether those actions are working, and making a Plan to change. This approach is distinct from what Rogers, Skinner, or Maslow are known for: Rogers is associated with client-centered therapy emphasizing unconditional positive regard, empathy, and congruence; Skinner with behaviorism and operant conditioning; Maslow with the hierarchy of needs and self-actualization. Among these, William Glasser is the founder of reality therapy.