who was alfred adler?

Alfred Adler was an Austrian physician, who practiced primarily in Vienna. He was born in 1870, graduated from the University of Vienna in 1895, and started working as an ophthalmologist in the outskirts of the city. In 1902, Adler was invited by Sigmund Freud to join the Vienna Psychoanalytic Society along with four other physicians. The meetings occurred on most Wednesdays in Freud’s apartment. Adler played a key role in first few years of this society such as becoming a president and an editor of their journal. Due to major differences with Freud’s theoretical views, the two of them did not get along, and in 1911, Adler left the society along with several other members.

what is adlerian psychology?

Adlerian Psychology is a theory of reality created by Alfred Adler, his family members, and countless students. It is also referred to as Individual Psychology. The name dates back to 1912, one year after Alfred Adler separated from the Vienna Psychoanalytic Society.

What characterizes the theory of IP?

You can read more about the theoretical concepts of Individual Psychology by following this link or by listening to Michael Maniacci’s presentation, which is uploaded here.

how is individual psychology applied to therapy?

There are many variations as to how Individual Psychology is practiced in psychotherapy. One of the most common features that are present among all practitioners of this theory is the emphasis on purpose — the purpose for which people experience their thoughts, feelings, dreams, fantasies, memories, bodily movements, attention processes, etc. Often times, these purposes are unknown, and it is the therapist’s task to help the client identify what those might be in the client’s unique narrative. Many of our purposes represent meanings that are important to us, and thus, helping clients identify their purposes opens a path to living a more enriched life.

Besides the emphasis on purpose, another key element that seems to be present across all Adlerian psychotherapies is Gemeinschaftsgefuhl. The literal translation of this term is community feeling. It has also been referred to as social interest. Gemeinschaftsgefuhl is not a binary experience but rather exists on a multilayered continuum. It can be found in feelings, thoughts, and actions. These are connections that transcend the person beyond themselves and across the infinite time, both towards the past and the future. This element of Individual Psychology encourages the person to develop a sense of belonging, which may occur in the context of their family relationships, friendships, local community, work, or romantic experiences. Additionally, one can experience a sense of belonging in non-human connections and communities — e.g. cats, dogs, plants, large bodies of water, celestial objects, or spiritual beings. Therefore, all Adlerian therapists pay close attention to how each client connects with humans and non-humans on their inevitable search for a FELT PLUS.