What term describes an approach in psychotherapy that combines techniques from different schools of thought?

• A. Eclectic approach
• B. Behavioral therapy
• C. Humanistic therapy
• D. Cognitive therapy

Answer: (A)

An eclectic approach in psychotherapy means therapists draw techniques from multiple theoretical traditions and apply whichever seem most helpful for the client. This flexibility allows the clinician to mix methods—such as exposure or behavioral strategies for anxiety, cognitive restructuring for thoughts, and empathic, client-centered listening from humanistic practice—within one treatment plan. The goal is to tailor intervention to the individual’s problems, goals, and responses, rather than sticking to a single framework. This stands in contrast to approaches that stick to one set of techniques, like behavioral methods focused on changes in behavior, cognitive methods targeting thought patterns, or humanistic methods emphasizing the therapeutic relationship and client growth. Eclectic practice combines the strengths of several approaches to maximize effectiveness.