Photo of Sam Sperling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 19129, PA
Sam Sperling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19129  (Online Only)
Your life has become exhausting. You have so much to do and your efforts never feel like they are enough. You would like to take time to slow down and focus on yourself for a change, but when will that realistically happen? There will always be something else to get done and you can’t seem to catch a break. Maybe your pain is taking the driver's seat, unsure of when your next flare up will strike. Maybe you've made your world smaller in hopes of having more control, but things continue to feel not quite right. You feel stuck in this place for what feels like an eternity and feeling uncertain about the future has become your jam.
Your life has become exhausting. You have so much to do and your efforts never feel like they are enough. You would like to take time to slow down and focus on yourself for a change, but when will that realistically happen? There will always be something else to get done and you can’t seem to catch a break. Maybe your pain is taking the driver's seat, unsure of when your next flare up will strike. Maybe you've made your world smaller in hopes of having more control, but things continue to feel not quite right. You feel stuck in this place for what feels like an eternity and feeling uncertain about the future has become your jam.
(267) 662-2861 View (267) 662-2861
Reality Therapy

Is reality therapy evidence-based?

Reality therapy is not well-studied, and it may not be as effective in treating certain mental health conditions when compared with evidence-based treatments like cognitive behavioral or acceptance and commitment therapies. However, some research does indicate that reality therapy might be helpful for people with addiction, and may be effective in treating social anxiety in young people.

How long does reality therapy last?

Reality therapy is less structured when compared with psychoanalysis, for example. Reality therapy is more open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a year or longer and to see their therapist one to two times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a client’s challenges and progress. Individuals can also practice the principles of reality therapy long after treatment has ended.

Does reality therapy work?

Reality therapy can help a person manage concerns such as eating disorders, addiction, substance use, anxiety, phobias, and relationship difficulties. This type of therapy encourages a person to be accountable for their behaviors. This therapy may offer benefits that are hard to measure. Reality therapy can be useful in one-on-one therapy or in group sessions. This method may be used with children, families, and adults.

What are the limitations of reality therapy?

This therapy is person-centered or client-centered, and the therapist focuses on choices made by the individual in the present day. The therapist privileges the individual’s perspective over others. This format may feel frustrating for individuals seeking a more structured approach; certainly, no one therapy type will work for every client.