Adlerian Therapy: A Holistic and Positive Approach to Mental Health

Many years ago, in an undergraduate theories of counseling class, I encountered the work of Alfred Adler. I’m not sure if that was my first introduction to Adler or if I had heard of him before, but his holistic and positive approach to understanding individuals deeply resonated with me.

At that point in my life, I had been in counseling with a few different providers. Exploring my childhood was still a deeply traumatic and unsettling experience, and I often found myself avoiding it altogether. So, discovering an approach like Adlerian therapy—a framework that is both compassionate and focused on the whole person—was a revelation. It offered a way to examine the experiences that shaped who I had become without feeling overwhelmed by pain or negativity.

Now, as a counselor, I draw heavily from Adlerian therapy in my work with clients. Whether I’m supporting autistic clients, parents of autistic children, trauma survivors, or individuals simply seeking to improve their mental health, I’ve found Adlerian principles to be both grounding and transformative.

What is Adlerian Therapy?

Adlerian therapy is based on the teachings of Alfred Adler, a pioneer in psychology who emphasized the importance of social connection, purpose, and the individual’s unique life story. Adler believed that everyone strives for belonging and significance and that much of human behavior is motivated by this deep need to connect and contribute.

Adlerian therapy is grounded in the following key principles:

1. Holistic View of the Individual: Adler viewed individuals as whole beings who cannot be separated into isolated parts. Thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected, and they are always shaped by social and cultural contexts.
2. Social Interest and Community: A core belief in Adlerian therapy is that humans are social beings who thrive when they feel connected and contributing to their communities. Developing a sense of belonging and purpose is central to mental well-being.
3. Lifestyle Assessment: Adlerian therapy explores an individual’s unique “lifestyle,” which includes their beliefs, goals, and strategies for navigating the world. This assessment helps identify patterns formed in early childhood that influence how individuals perceive themselves and their relationships.
4. Encouragement and Strengths-Based Focus: Adlerian therapy emphasizes the power of encouragement and building on a person’s strengths. It avoids pathologizing and instead seeks to empower individuals to overcome challenges by focusing on their capabilities and potential.
5. Future-Oriented and Goal-Focused: While early childhood experiences are explored to understand patterns, Adlerian therapy is future-focused, helping individuals set meaningful goals and create positive change.

How I Use Adlerian Therapy in My Practice

In my work, Adlerian principles guide me in creating a safe, compassionate space for clients to explore their lives and their unique stories. For clients who have experienced trauma, like myself, it’s especially important to approach the past with sensitivity and to highlight their resilience and strengths. Adlerian therapy allows us to reflect on how past experiences shaped their current beliefs and behaviors while also focusing on building a fulfilling future.

For example, with autistic clients or parents of autistic children, we explore how their identities and experiences have shaped their perceptions of the world. Using lifestyle assessments, we uncover patterns, beliefs, and coping strategies that influence their mental health and relationships. By building on their strengths and fostering self-acceptance, we work toward cultivating a sense of belonging and purpose.

For trauma survivors, Adlerian therapy offers a way to revisit painful experiences without becoming overwhelmed. Instead of remaining stuck in the pain of the past, we focus on what they’ve learned, how they’ve grown, and the goals they want to achieve moving forward.

Why Adlerian Therapy Matters

Adlerian therapy stands out because it honors the complexity of being human while maintaining a positive, strengths-based approach. It encourages individuals to view themselves with compassion and to approach life with curiosity and courage.

In my own life and practice, this framework has been invaluable. It has helped me make sense of my experiences and given me the tools to help others do the same. Whether you are looking to heal from trauma, navigate life as an autistic individual, or simply improve your mental health, Adlerian therapy offers a pathway to understanding, growth, and connection.

If you’re curious to learn more about Adlerian therapy or how it might help you, feel free to reach out. I’d love to support you on your journey to discovering your strengths and achieving your goals.