Which concept refers to using one's own personality strategically in therapy to facilitate engagement and growth?

Which concept refers to using one's own personality strategically in therapy to facilitate engagement and growth?

• A. Therapeutic use of self
• B. Pragmatism
• C. Emmanuelism
• D. Activities Therapy

Answer: (A)

Using one's own personality strategically in therapy to facilitate engagement and growth is known as therapeutic use of self. In practice, this means the therapist is intentionally aware of how their own traits—like empathy, warmth, sense of humor, communication style, and professional boundaries—affect the therapeutic relationship. By aligning their approach with the client’s needs, preferences, and cultural context, the therapist builds trust, fosters active participation, and creates a collaborative environment that supports learning and growth. Pragmatism centers on practical outcomes and problem-solving rather than how the therapist's presence and interactions influence engagement. Emmanuelism isn’t a recognized OT term, and Activities Therapy focuses more on using meaningful activities as interventions rather than the therapist’s intentional use of self to connect with the client.

Using one's own personality strategically in therapy to facilitate engagement and growth is known as therapeutic use of self. In practice, this means the therapist is intentionally aware of how their own traits—like empathy, warmth, sense of humor, communication style, and professional boundaries—affect the therapeutic relationship. By aligning their approach with the client’s needs, preferences, and cultural context, the therapist builds trust, fosters active participation, and creates a collaborative environment that supports learning and growth.

Pragmatism centers on practical outcomes and problem-solving rather than how the therapist's presence and interactions influence engagement. Emmanuelism isn’t a recognized OT term, and Activities Therapy focuses more on using meaningful activities as interventions rather than the therapist’s intentional use of self to connect with the client.