One Case, Four Approaches: The Application of Psychotherapeutic Approaches in Sport Psychology

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Martin J. Turner Manchester Metropolitan University

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Gillian Aspin GCApsychology

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Faye F. Didymus Leeds Beckett University

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Rory Mack Sheffield Hallam University

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Peter Olusoga Sheffield Hallam University

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Andrew G. Wood Staffordshire University

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Richard Bennett University of Birmingham

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DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1123/tsp.2019-0079
First Published Online:
12 Mar 2020
In Print:
Volume 34: Issue 1
Page Range:
71–83
Restricted access

Practitioners in sport and exercise psychology tasked with service provision in any environment can decide which framework(s) they draw on to inform their applied work. However, the similarities and differences between psychotherapeutic approaches are underrepresented in current literature. Therefore, this paper brings together practitioners from 4 dominant psychotherapeutic approaches to address a specific hypothetical case. Four different cognitive-behavioral approaches are outlined: rational emotive behavior therapy, cognitive therapy, schema therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. Each practitioner outlines the particular approach and proceeds to address the case by covering assessment, intervention, and evaluation strategies that are specific to it. Similarities and differences across the approaches are discussed, and implications for practice are put forth. Finally, two other practitioners introduce motivational interviewing as an additional framework to foster the working alliance.

Turner is with the Faculty of Health, Psychology & Social Care, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom. Aspin is with GCApsychology, Manchester, United Kingdom. Didymus is with the Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom. Mack is with the Centre for Sport and Exercise Science, and Olusoga, the Academy of Sport and Physical Activity, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, United Kingdom. Wood is with Sport and Exercise, School of Life Science and Education, Staffordshire University, Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom Bennett is with the School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.

Turner (m.turner@mmu.ac.uk) is corresponding author.
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