A Systems Approach in Psychotherapy in the Context of Developing Emotional Intelligence through the Method of “Reality Strategy”: A New Look at Psychological Integrity

In the context of postmodern fragmentation and the crisis of “grand narratives”, the problem of gaining and maintaining psychological integrity of the individual acquires existential urgency. This article presents a fundamental theoretical and empirical substantiation of the innovative integrative method “Reality Strategy”, designed to reconsolidate personal integrity through the targeted development of emotional intelligence (EI) as a meta-competence. The method is founded on the paradigm of a systemic approach, wherein the psyche is viewed as a complex, dynamic, self-organizing system striving for homeostasis. The central task of the study is to demonstrate the unique therapeutic synthesis underlying the “Reality Strategy”, which combines concepts from humanistic psychology, third-wave cognitive-behavioral therapy, and applied neurophysiology. Particular attention is paid to the scientific novelty of the method, which consists in: 1) operationalization of the neurophysiological model of the reticular activating system (RAS) as a practical cybernetic tool for conscious reconfiguration of the client’s perceptual filters; 2) development of a multi-level concept of “Acceptance” (phenomenological, cognitive, somatic, existential); 3) formulation of the concept of psychological trauma as a post factum cognitive-existential choice of vulnerability. Also, for the first time, the definition of psychological integrity is introduced as a dynamic state of coherence between the cognitive, emotional and behavioral aspects of the personality, supported by a consciously calibrated RAS. A detailed analysis of the author’s model of working with the “Persona” as a socially constructed facade and deconstruction of irrational introjects is carried out. The article presents the results of a multi-stage pilot study (N = 50) demonstrating a statistically significant (p < 0.01) improvement in EI indices (MSCEIT-adapted), reductions in anxiety and depression levels (HADS), as well as a significant increase in self-esteem (Rosenberg scale) and subjective quality of life. A statistical analysis using the Student’s t-test for dependent samples was conducted to confirm the reliability of the observed changes. The analysis of clinical cases illustrates the practical implementation and effectiveness of the method. The article argues that the “Reality Strategy” is a valid and effective tool for relatively short-term therapy, catalyzing deep personal transformation and the formation of a mature, authentic, and self-determined life position.