Running Head: KEVIN AND ADLERIAN THERAPY 1
PSYC 388 Introduction to Counselling CASE STUDY: KEVIN L. AND
ADLERIAN-SOCIAL APPROACH FALL YEAR 2025|26 Athabasca
University
Case Study: Kevin L. and Adlerian-Social Approach
Athabasca University
PSYC 388 Introduction to Counselling
Instructor: Kaitlin Hillier
Date: October 18, 2025
, KEVIN AND ALDERIAN THERAPY 2
Case Study Sample Report: Kevin and Adlerian-Social Approach
Issue and Approach
This study will focus on Kevin’s intra-psychic issue of self-esteem in relation to his sudden
lack of employment and its impact on his behaviors and relationships. His diminished sense of
self-worth has manifested in the forms of alcohol abuse, emotionally aggressive behavior and
isolation. Utilizing an Adlerian approach this study aims to show how the experiences and
relationships of Kevin’s childhood have influenced his reactions to challenges as an adult, as well
as helping him to find healthier alternate coping strategies.
Therapeutic Approach
Chosen therapy and applicability. Adlerian, or individual psychology is the method of
counselling developed by Alfred Adler in the early 1900s. Adler was a constructivist who
championed prevention over treatment as well as of purposeful encouragement-based
counselling. Adlerian therapy is based on the interconnectedness of humanity, the standards of
human behavior and the desire of the individual to achieve their place in society. Aspects of the
individual such as family history, birth order and outlook on life are evaluated to determine
suitable techniques for addressing pre-existing negative self image and pursuing more
constructive perspectives (Cedeno & Torrico, 2024; Corey, G. 2013). Adler psychology
proposed that we are governed by goal orientation and a conscious drive for self-improvement
(APA Dictionary of Psychology, 2018). In addition to encouraging healthy societal relationships,
Adlerian therapy also relies on competent interprofessional care.
Adler’s own term for his method of psychology was individual psychology, often
misinterpreted as to mean focusing on each person separately, or as an individual, while Adler
PSYC 388 Introduction to Counselling CASE STUDY: KEVIN L. AND
ADLERIAN-SOCIAL APPROACH FALL YEAR 2025|26 Athabasca
University
Case Study: Kevin L. and Adlerian-Social Approach
Athabasca University
PSYC 388 Introduction to Counselling
Instructor: Kaitlin Hillier
Date: October 18, 2025
, KEVIN AND ALDERIAN THERAPY 2
Case Study Sample Report: Kevin and Adlerian-Social Approach
Issue and Approach
This study will focus on Kevin’s intra-psychic issue of self-esteem in relation to his sudden
lack of employment and its impact on his behaviors and relationships. His diminished sense of
self-worth has manifested in the forms of alcohol abuse, emotionally aggressive behavior and
isolation. Utilizing an Adlerian approach this study aims to show how the experiences and
relationships of Kevin’s childhood have influenced his reactions to challenges as an adult, as well
as helping him to find healthier alternate coping strategies.
Therapeutic Approach
Chosen therapy and applicability. Adlerian, or individual psychology is the method of
counselling developed by Alfred Adler in the early 1900s. Adler was a constructivist who
championed prevention over treatment as well as of purposeful encouragement-based
counselling. Adlerian therapy is based on the interconnectedness of humanity, the standards of
human behavior and the desire of the individual to achieve their place in society. Aspects of the
individual such as family history, birth order and outlook on life are evaluated to determine
suitable techniques for addressing pre-existing negative self image and pursuing more
constructive perspectives (Cedeno & Torrico, 2024; Corey, G. 2013). Adler psychology
proposed that we are governed by goal orientation and a conscious drive for self-improvement
(APA Dictionary of Psychology, 2018). In addition to encouraging healthy societal relationships,
Adlerian therapy also relies on competent interprofessional care.
Adler’s own term for his method of psychology was individual psychology, often
misinterpreted as to mean focusing on each person separately, or as an individual, while Adler
