Hi Adam,
Thanks for the good question! No excuses necessary.
Since I’ve already been “accused” of being goal oriented (guilty as charged), my main therapy motto is “Use what works.” Or, slightly modified, “Use what’s been proven to work.”
Both directive approaches (such as cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, and so on), and non-directive approaches (such as humanistic,client centered therapy and so on ) can be effective. Therapists should make their decisions about what approaches and techniques to use primarily based on what’s been proven to work and with what works with a particular patient and diagnosis (which can vary over the course of therapy).
Basically, you must tailor the therapy to the patient at all times. For example, a new patient might be feeling raw and sensitive and your approach with him/her will be different than it will be a couple of months into therapy as he/she progresses. Your choices should help engage the patient and propel him or her forward.
Also important: a therapist must take into consideration his or her own skills and experience with a particular technique. A therapist gains skill with a technique by studying/reading about it and using it over and over again in clinical settings under supervision.
Students might find that a particular technique or overall approach appeals to them in the classroom, but once they become immersed in their internships they often find other approaches are more accessible and effective. One of my mantras: “Theory is not a substitute for practice.”
I know I answered your question in perhaps a broader manner than perhaps warranted, but I hope it will be helpful.

Thank you both. It is a big subject area.