National Counselor Exam Practice Test 2025 – Comprehensive Study Resource

Behavioral therapy is focused on modifying specific behaviors and is grounded in the principles of learning theory. When a therapist assists a client in setting small, specific goals, this aligns with the foundational practices of behavioral therapy, which emphasizes measurable outcomes and gradual progress. By breaking down larger objectives into smaller, actionable steps, clients can experience success, build confidence, and create behavior change through reinforcement or practice.

In contrast, cognitive therapy primarily addresses thoughts and beliefs that influence emotions and behaviors rather than setting concrete behavioral goals. Humanistic therapy emphasizes personal growth and self-actualization, focusing on the individual's capacity for self-awareness and personal development, which might involve broader goals rather than specific behavioral changes. Psychoanalytic therapy delves into unconscious processes and past experiences, often focusing on introspection and understanding the root causes of issues rather than setting immediate, concrete goals.