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The importance of discipline for the patient

Updated: Jun 20, 2023


The importance of discipline for the patient in psychological therapy used in the Habituation Protocol

The importance of discipline for the patient in psychological therapy cannot be overstated. Discipline refers to the ability to engage in therapeutic activities consistently, adhere to treatment plans, and actively participate in the therapeutic process. Here are some reasons why discipline is crucial for patients in psychological therapy:


Consistency and Progress: Discipline helps patients consistently attend therapy sessions and engage in therapeutic activities. Regular attendance and active participation provide the opportunity for progress and growth over time. By always practicing therapeutic techniques, engaging in self-reflection, and following through with homework assignments, patients can maximize the benefits of therapy and achieve their therapeutic goals.


Commitment to Change: Discipline demonstrates a commitment to change and personal growth. Therapy requires effort, dedication, and a willingness to confront and explore challenging emotions and behaviors. Patients who approach treatment with discipline are ready to make necessary changes and actively work toward their well-being.


Accountability and Responsibility: Discipline fosters accountability and a sense of responsibility for one's healing and growth. By taking ownership of their therapeutic journey, patients recognize their role in their well-being and understand that their efforts and commitment play a vital role in achieving positive outcomes.


Skill Development: Discipline allows patients to develop and refine therapeutic skills and coping strategies. Therapy often involves learning new skills, such as relaxation techniques, problem-solving strategies, or cognitive restructuring. By consistently practicing these skills in therapy sessions and daily life, patients can reinforce their effectiveness and integrate them into their repertoire of adaptive coping strategies.


Treatment Adherence: Discipline is crucial for adhering to the therapist's treatment plans and recommendations. This may include following medication regimens, implementing lifestyle changes, or engaging in specific exercises or activities outside of therapy. Adhering to the prescribed treatment enhances the effectiveness of therapy and increases the likelihood of positive outcomes.


Self-Empowerment: Discipline empowers patients to take an active role in their well-being. It enables them to make choices and engage in behaviors that support their mental health and personal growth. Through discipline, patients develop self-regulation skills and a sense of agency, which can contribute to long-term success beyond the therapeutic process.

It is important to note that discipline in therapy does not imply rigidity or harsh self-policing. Instead, it refers to a commitment to engaging in therapeutic activities, maintaining consistency, and taking responsibility for one's growth. A collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship can help foster and sustain discipline by providing guidance, encouragement, and accountability.


While numerous psychologists and therapists emphasize the importance of discipline for patients in psychological therapy, it is not a topic that any specific psychologist has extensively covered. However, many psychologists have written about related concepts such as motivation, commitment, and self-regulation, which are closely tied to discipline. Here are a few psychologists who have explored these topics in the context of therapy:


Albert Ellis: Albert Ellis, the founder of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), emphasized the importance of active and disciplined engagement in therapy. He advocated for clients to take responsibility for their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors through disciplined self-reflection and rational thinking to challenge irrational beliefs.


Aaron T. Beck: Aaron T. Beck, the founder of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), has written extensively on the cognitive processes and self-regulation skills involved in therapy. His work highlights the importance of discipline in challenging and modifying negative thoughts and behaviors through consistent practice and active engagement in treatment.


Marsha M. Linehan: Marsha M. Linehan, the developer of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), emphasizes the need for discipline and commitment to the treatment process. DBT integrates strategies and skills, such as mindfulness and emotion regulation, that require disciplined practice and consistent implementation to achieve therapeutic goals.


Carl Rogers: While not explicitly focused on discipline, Carl Rogers, the founder of Person-Centered Therapy, emphasized the importance of client self-direction and self-regulation in therapy. His humanistic approach emphasizes the client's role in determining their goals, making choices, and taking responsibility for their growth and change.


It is important to note that discipline in therapy is often integrated within broader therapeutic approaches and may be discussed by various psychologists in different contexts. Therapists across other modalities recognize the importance of patient engagement, commitment, and consistency in therapy, even if they may not explicitly use the term "discipline."


Edvaldo de |Oliveira Leme, RNC,ADON/LTC,BPSY.




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