Adlerian or Individual Psychology is a comprehensive school of psychology originated and developed by the Austrian psychiatrist, Alfred Adler (1870-1937).

Individual Psychology emphasizes the uniqueness of each individual and recognizes that as humans we are also social beings who are striving for a sense of belonging and significance. Individuals and their behaviours are viewed holistically taking into consideration their physical, cultural and psychological environments.

Adlerians are concerned with understanding the unique and private beliefs that each individual creates in his or her childhood and which then serve as that individual's reference point for their attitudes, behaviours, view of self and others in the world.

Human behaviour is seen as purposeful and goal orientated. What we ultimately strive for is a sense of social connectedness and for feelings of significance. Emotional difficulties are due to feelings of inferiority and not having a sense of community.

Adlerian therapy encourages the development of social interest as demonstrated by an individual's ability to act in accord with the common welfare and a subjective sense of connection with others. True change and growth results from identifying, exploring and changing mistaken goals and beliefs. Therapy is seen as a re-education process leading to greater social participation and fewer feelings of inferiority.