Redirection therapy

Redirection Therapy is a short-term, non-medical model therapeutic modality developed in 1993, by James W. Clifton, Ph.D., LCSW, LMHC, LMFT. Redirection Therapy combines elements of cognitive behavioral therapy with the teachings of Karen Horney regarding inner conflcits. Changes of direction, behavior, and the common language are the central components of Redirection Therapy.

Two essential elements of Redirection Therapy distinguish it from cognitive-behavioral therapy. First and foremost, the primary focus is on the development of a personal, constructive value system. It is the belief of Redirection Therapy that most problems people face are due to the lack of a personal, constructive value system leading to destructive consequences due to poor choices and irresponsible behaviors.

The second distinguishing element regards "thinking errors." Redirection Therapy believes problems of "common language" and not "thinking errors" are more serious. For instance, Redirection Therapy teaches clients to use "I" words rather than "You" or "It" words. For example, "You made me do it" becomes "I did it" or "I chose to do it." "He made me angry" becomes "I am angry." "It pains me" becomes "I am pained," etc.

Using "I" words teaches people to take responsibility for themselves and that they only have control over their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and cannot control anyone but themselves. It also teaches internal motivation rather than external motivation.

Redirection Therapy teaches that people make choices for everything they do and that in most cases, the word "choice" needs to be substituted for the word "mistake." For example, drinking and driving, battering others, using drugs, stealing, cheating on spouses, defying authority, etc., are not "mistakes." These are "choices." Calling them "mistakes" minimizes their seriousness and taking responsibility for them.

Redirection Therapy

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