Adlerian Psychology
A Practical, Whole-Person Approach to Emotional Well-Being
What Is Adlerian Psychology?
Adlerian Psychology is a holistic, strengths-based approach to mental health developed by Alfred Adler. Rather than focusing solely on symptoms or diagnoses, Adlerian Psychology looks at the whole person—your experiences, values, relationships, and the meaning you assign to your life.
At its core, this approach is built on a simple but powerful idea:
people are motivated by a desire to belong, to feel capable, and to live with purpose.
Instead of asking “What’s wrong with me?”, Adlerian Psychology asks:
“What am I trying to accomplish, and how can I move forward in a healthier way?”
How Adlerian Psychology Is Different
Many therapeutic approaches focus on pathology or past events in isolation. Adlerian Psychology is present- and future-focused, while still honoring how early experiences shaped you.
Key differences include:
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Emphasis on meaning, purpose, and direction
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Focus on strengths and resilience, not just symptoms
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Recognition of the importance of relationships and community
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Practical tools that apply to everyday life—not just therapy sessions
This makes it especially helpful for people who feel “stuck,” overwhelmed, or disconnected from themselves or others.
Core Principles of Adlerian Psychology
1. The Importance of Belonging
Humans are wired for connection. Feelings of anxiety, depression, or low self-worth often arise when we feel disconnected—from others or from ourselves.
Adlerian Psychology helps uncover how you relate to people and where you may be craving greater connection or contribution.
2. Lifestyle & Early Patterns
Your “lifestyle” in Adlerian terms refers to the beliefs and patterns you developed early in life to make sense of the world.
These patterns once helped you adapt—but they may no longer serve you. Therapy helps bring these patterns into awareness so you can choose new, healthier responses.
3. Purposeful Behavior
From an Adlerian perspective, behaviors—even unhelpful ones—have a purpose. Understanding why a behavior exists allows us to gently shift it, rather than fight against it.
4. Encouragement as a Healing Tool
Encouragement is central to Adlerian work. This doesn’t mean empty positivity—it means helping you recognize your capacity, worth, and ability to grow.
Encouragement builds confidence, emotional resilience, and self-trust.
How Adlerian Psychology Can Help You
This approach can be especially helpful if you are experiencing:
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Anxiety or chronic worry
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Depression or low motivation
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ADHD or executive functioning challenges
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Relationship struggles or people-pleasing patterns
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Low self-esteem or perfectionism
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Life transitions, burnout, or identity shifts
Rather than treating symptoms in isolation, Adlerian Psychology helps you understand how your thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and relationships interact, so change feels sustainable and meaningful.
Getting Started Is As Easy As 1..2..3..
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Contact
Steamboat Office:
2201 Curve Plaza, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Denver Office:
950 S. Cherry St., Suite 1675, Denver, CO 80246
Phone: 970-819-1710
Fax: 970-360-2347
