Who is the founder of Reality Therapy?

The founder of Reality Therapy is William Glasser. He developed this therapeutic approach in the 1960s as a way to help individuals take control of their lives by focusing on their current behavior and the choices they make, rather than on past experiences. Reality Therapy emphasizes personal responsibility and the importance of satisfying basic needs, including love, power, freedom, and fun, which are central to promoting healthy relationships and improving overall well-being.

Glasser's work underlines the concept of choosing a fulfilling life by focusing on present actions and relationships rather than dwelling on past traumas or unconscious motivations. This differs markedly from other therapeutic modalities that may prioritize insight into one's past, such as psychoanalysis or client-centered therapy. Understanding Glasser’s fundamentals is imperative for counselors, especially in the context of chemical dependency, where clients may benefit from learning responsible decision-making and self-efficacy.