By Kim Bartholdi

Psychologist

Have you ever thought that you would like to go to therapy, but don’t know which therapy would be best for you? Have you had a friend go to therapy and suggested you go to, but when you get there, you don’t find it useful? Psychological therapies, or psychotherapies, encompass a diverse array of techniques and approaches aimed at enhancing mental health and well-being. However, not every technique or approach is for everyone, so it can be helpful to know what each of the main approaches focus on.

As mental health issues become increasingly prevalent in society, understanding the various psychotherapies or therapies and their specific applications is crucial for individuals seeking help.

In this article, I will explain the different types of psychological therapies, their principles, and the various conditions they can help with.

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most well-researched and widely used forms of psychotherapy and is often called evidence-based therapy. It is based on the cognitive model that suggests our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected and can form a vicious cycle. CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to this vicious cycle and cause psychological distress. 

CBT is particularly effective for anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It equips clients with practical skills to manage their symptoms in daily life. Research indicates that CBT can lead to significant reductions in symptoms and can be as effective as medication for some conditions. It focuses on the present rather than delving into an individual’s past. Although your psychologist, counsellor, or psychotherapist will enquire your background history, it won’t be the main focus of your sessions.

2. Psychodynamic Therapy

Probably the most famous type of therapy, rooted in the theories of Freud and succeeding theorists, psychodynamic therapy emphasizes the influence of unconscious processes and childhood experiences on current behavior. It involves exploring unresolved conflicts, emotions, and relationships that shape a person's thoughts and actions. This type of therapy will look mostly at your past history to help you understand why you might think or act the way you do in the present.

This approach is beneficial for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and complex emotional difficulties stemming from past trauma. By bringing awareness to unconscious motivations and promoting self-reflection, psychodynamic therapy can lead to profound personal insights and lasting change.

3. Humanistic Therapy

Humanistic therapy, which includes Gestalt therapy and client-centered therapy, focuses on helping individuals achieve their potential and emphasizes personal growth and self-actualization. This therapeutic approach is client-centered, meaning the therapist creates a supportive environment that fosters open communication and self-exploration.

Humanistic therapy is suitable for individuals seeking to improve self-esteem, address life transitions, or explore their identity. It is particularly helpful for individuals navigating personal crises or seeking personal development because it encourages them to take responsibility for their choices and develop a sense of autonomy. It can act in a motivating way for people and empower them, as the therapists helps the clients to help themselves.

4. Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy is grounded in the principles of behaviorism, focusing on modifying harmful behaviors through reinforcement and conditioning rather than addressing underlying psychological processes. Techniques may include exposure therapy.

This therapy is particularly effective for phobias, addictions, and behavioral disorders. For example, exposure therapy can help individuals gradually face and overcome fears. This therapy is helpful for both adults and children.

5. Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) is focused on improving interpersonal relationships and addressing social roles and conflicts. Developed initially for treating depression, IPT emphasizes the connection between relationships and mood.

IPT is effective for depression, anxiety disorders, and stress-related disorders. It is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing relationship difficulties, grief, or life transitions, as it helps clients improve communication skills and build stronger social support networks.

6. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) emerged from cognitive-behavioral principles and is specifically designed to treat borderline personality disorder (BPD) and other emotional regulation issues. DBT incorporates mindfulness techniques and emphasizes the balance between acceptance and change.

DBT is effective in treating BPD, self-harming behaviors, suicidal ideation, and in particular emotional dysregulation. DBT helps clients manage intense emotions, improve relationships, and develop healthy coping strategies.

7. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a form of behavioral therapy that encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling guilty for them. The goal is to increase psychological flexibility and commitment to values-driven actions.

ACT is effective for anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and stress management. Its emphasis on acceptance helps clients cultivate a more compassionate relationship with their thoughts and feelings, thereby reducing their negative psychological impact.

8. Family and Couples Therapy

Family and couples therapy involves working with multiple individuals who are related, addressing issues such as communication breakdowns, conflict resolution, and relationship dynamics. These therapies aim to enhance understanding and support within relationships.

This approach is suitable for families experiencing conflict, communication issues, or support systems in crisis. Couples therapy can help partners address conflicts, improve intimacy, and navigate relationship challenges.

9. Mindfulness-Based Therapies

Mindfulness-based therapies, such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), integrate mindfulness practices to help clients develop present moment awareness and lessen rumination.

These therapies are effective for anxiety disorders, depression, and stress management. By fostering mindfulness, clients learn to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment, cultivating self-compassion and emotional resilience.

10. Art and Expressive Therapies

Art therapy and other expressive therapies utilize creative modalities (such as music, drama, and movement) to facilitate self-expression and emotional processing. These therapies can be particularly beneficial for those who find traditional verbal communication challenging.

Expressive therapies are effective for children, individuals with trauma, and those dealing with grief or severe emotional distress. They provide a non-verbal outlet for expressing emotions and can complement other therapeutic modalities.

Conclusion

The diversity of psychological therapies reflects the complexity of human experience and mental health challenges. Each therapy offers distinct methodologies and benefits, making it imperative for individuals seeking help to consider their unique circumstances, preferences, and specific issues. However, this does not mean you need to know exactly what type of therapy you need. Your psychologist, counsellor or psychotherapist will conduct an assessment with you and suggest the modality that best fits your needs. Ultimately, when you decide to seek mental health support, it is important to remember that the path to improved mental health is rich with possibilities. Book in a session with me now!