A DIALECTIC OF EXPERIENCE - A RADICAL EMPIRICIST APPROACH TO CONFLICTING THEORIES IN PSYCHOTHERAPY

The problem of conflicting theories of psychotherapy is primarily meta physical. Consequently, the metaphysical presuppositions of the over 4 60 schools of psychotherapy are not likely to be integrated through an y new theory. This article utilizes the radical empiricism of William James, in combination with the work of George Kelly and Edmund Husserl , in a dialectical exploration of the roots of the problem of psychoth erapy theories. The convolutions and confusions that result from metap hysical pursuits are clarified although no attempt is made to finalize any particular theory. The dialectic of experience, like a kind of co gnitive therapy on psychotherapy theory itself, shows how differing se ts of presuppositions have reframed and redefined primary experience t o arrive at radically different, incompatible theories. The discussion leads to a common factor approach to psychotherapy research, practice , and theory that is cognizant of the dialectic of experience. The dia lectic accommodates the insights of the various schools without sacrif icing them in a superficial eclecticism.