This document outlines three theoretical approaches to therapy: existential therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and reality therapy. Existential therapy focuses on self-awareness, freedom, responsibility, identity, meaning and relationships. Cognitive behavioral therapy emphasizes changing cognitions to alter affect and behavior through a collaborative relationship. Reality therapy emphasizes choice, responsibility, relating symptoms to present issues, and setting short- and long-term goals. The common elements across approaches include setting a goal, finding multiple solutions rather than a quick fix, and an interactive friendly relationship.