Upon reding chapter three of Dr. Taleff’s book, I acquired interesting information and a new perspective to conceptualize critical thinking. Several concepts were interesting including his arguments about a counselor’s tendency to be overcommitted to a single theory or belief system. I felt that I am among the group that he described to rely extremely on a theoretical approach and majorly use it to conceptualize client cases, analyze and treat them. I now agree that extreme dedication to theoretical approaches and ideologies qualifies as poor thinking. It is true that holding such a belief can potentially compromise the ability to deliver services to clients. I somewhat felt that I would have denied several people the treatment they deserved due to this poor way of thinking.
In the explanation about the tendency to use catch phrases in explaining addition, I felt that I can think critically in the face of complexities. I have a tendency to seek a comprehensive understanding of a complex scenario and focus on handling the issue within its context. Here I would argue that even when the same symptoms or characteristic presents in two patients, the presentation, underlying factors and purpose would be expected to be different just like the individuals are.
In the argument of false pride, I believe in room for improvements and hence avoid ‘becoming an expert’ after handling a number of clients. I refrain from generalizations and focus on relating with people individually. As such if a client presents with symptoms that indicate a certain condition, I would prefer to keep a neutral perspective until a formal diagnosis confirms or denies such a condition.
