This essay will critique the efficacy of Psychodynamic and Cognitive-Behavioural counselling approaches, in particular as they apply to a specific case scenario. Both approaches will be defined and explained, and a brief expose of their relative antecedents will clarify the respective locations of each in the broad spectrum of counselling theories. Conceptual elements and therapeutic strengths pertinent to the scenario will be identified, and the limitations of each approach will be highlighted, along with the need for racial, cultural, religious and gender sensitivity on the part of the counsellor. Examples of practical techniques will be explored to illustrate the therapeutic effectiveness and expected outcomes of each model. Finally, it will be demonstrated that both the psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural counselling theories, in the hands of trained, professional helpers, occupy important roles in the spectrum of counselling philosophies.
             An irrefutable element in contemporary psychological and counselling practices is the seminal work of Sigmund Freud, who originally conceptualised the notion of 'the unconscious' and its effect on human behaviour (Kovel 1987: 96-98). A core principle in Freud's theories espoused that unpleasant or traumatic childhood experiences - if suppressed in the unconscious and denied by means of 'defence mechanisms' - could subsequently surface as inexplicable thoughts or behaviours in adult life (Geldard 1998: 12-13). Corey (1991: 96-99) succinctly describes the three systems that make up the 'structure of personality' as the 'biological (id), psychological (ego), and social' (super-ego), and that 'ego defence mechanisms' whilst having the potential to warp reality, are normal processes operating on an unconscious level to protect the ego from being 'overwhelmed'.
             Psychodynamic therapy, whilst firmly established in Freud&a...