Types Of Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy, often called talk therapy, is an approach that utilizes dialogue to assist people in managing a broad range of mental health conditions and emotional and behavior challenges, as we all deal with things differently.
What is a psychotherapist? There are dozens of psychotherapeutic approaches used by mental health professionals, which can be grouped into five broad categories: psychodynamic therapy, behavior therapy, cognitive therapy, humanistic therapy, and holistic therapy. Each category represents one of the different types of psychotherapy addressing various psychological issues and provides tailored interventions for patients, helping them overcome challenges and improve their psychological well-being.
Depending on the symptoms the client is seeking to treat, some therapies and approaches may be more effective than others. Learning about the different types of psychological therapy options available to you or someone you love for treatment may benefit you in making an informed decision for psychological care.
Popular types of psychotherapy
While there are less mainstream types of psychotherapy, like equine-assisted therapy, transference-focused counseling, and dance therapy, below are several of the most utilized types of psychotherapy applicable to a broader range of mental health conditions. Some psychologists may combine multiple different psychotherapy techniques or pair a psychotherapeutic approach with medication to form a unique treatment plan, often referred to as an integrative approach.
Types of psychotherapy: Interpersonal therapy (IPT)
Interpersonal therapy is a modern type of psychotherapy developed in the 20th century. Which approach focuses on life events and relationships. Initially designed to treat major depressive disorder, it is now used to successfully treat substance dependency, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, and other types of depression that involve problematic behaviors. Due to its success and popularity, the use of IPT as a reliable psychotherapy treatment for mental health issues continues to grow, and studies have shown its effectiveness is comparable to using medication.
Depression, bipolar disorder, and other usages for IPT
IPT is a person-centered psychotherapy format; the primary purpose of IPT is often to allow clients to explore strategies and mechanisms, engage in self-exploration and develop strategies for improving their interpersonal relationships. IPT therapists may aim to decrease types of stressors in a client's life incurred from unhealthy interpersonal relationships through skills like setting boundaries, saying "no," or moving on from unhealthy connections in a healthy manner.
The one-on-one sessions may focus on the client's awareness of conflict, how conflict could begin, and positive methods of resolving it. The psychotherapy treatment for IPT may be based on a specific timeline and could last from 12 to 16 weeks. Therapy sessions are often conducted individually but may also be arranged in a group setting, depending on type of treatment goals.
The first few sessions of IPT are often devoted to assessing the client's symptoms and concerns related to dysfunctional emotions. Once a clear pattern has been established, the remaining psychotherapy sessions may be dedicated to helping the individual develop the appropriate strategies to recognize and resolve behavioral patterns.
Target topic types in IPT
There are four primary types of issues that IPT targets, incorporating aspects of dysfunctional thinking and abnormal behaviors. These points of the psychotherapy include:
- Interpersonal deficits: How and what is lacking in their social interactions? What aspects of their interpersonal relationships feel unfulfilled or lacking? How do their identity and beliefs contribute to their dissatisfaction?
- Grief and loss: Are there challenges related to losing a loved one that may connect with the client's interpersonal struggles?
- Interpersonal conflict challenges: Is the client struggling to manage and resolve conflicts with coworkers, family, partners, friends, or the public? Are psychodynamic therapies needed to uncover unconscious meanings behind these conflicts?
- Adjustment concerns: Is the client struggling to adjust to a significant change in their life, such as losing a job, separating, or experiencing an adverse event? Can existential therapy provide insights into their response to these changes?
For interpersonal psychotherapy treatment to be successful, the client may have to invest in willingness, self-respect, and effort to embrace the concept of free will. They may receive certain types of homework, ongoing assessments, and interviews, as IPT often follows a specific structure and aims to provide therapy effectively.
Focus on the moment using psychotherapy
In IPT, the focus may not be on past events or pain but on the present moment. The main goal is often to help patients learn and change unhealthy behavioral patterns and false perceptions in the client's interpersonal relationships. As the treatment evolves, the types of strategies may also adapt to better treat people and their unique needs.
Types of psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Invented during the 1960s, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) combines behavioral therapy and cognitive-based psychotherapy (hence, cognitive-behavioral). Therapists often use it in conjunction with other therapies or medication to treat mental health conditions, stress, or distressing symptoms.
CBT can address substance abuse, panic disorders, anxiety disorders, and other types of conditions. It can also teach coping skills and promote greater self-awareness by helping individuals become aware of the nexus of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
CBT has also been found to be helpful in addressing low self-esteem, which is linked with depression, through the use of techniques such as self-compassion. It can also reduce responses to types of stigma such as rumination, avoidance, and perfectionism.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy methods
Clients of CBT may work on not dwelling on upsetting or wrongful events but on the emotional and physical importance that they place on these events or the beliefs and behaviors developed. CBT often involves challenging belief systems and patterns to create more favorable circumstances, thoughts, and behaviors. In CBT, clients may learn how to make a positive change in their behavior by deciding to make that change in their psychological processes.
CBT is one of the most effective forms or types of psychotherapy for depression and other mental health conditions like eating disorders, substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and mood disorders. It is a short-term psychotherapy that typically lasts from three to ten months, with one weekly session. Each participant collaborates with a psychotherapist to establish specific goals and timelines.
Treatment plans with cognitive behavioral therapy
While treatment may be a short-term process, it can come with challenges. It can require expertise from a therapist and a firm commitment and active participation from the client to work together toward a common goal. CBT might also not be effective for treating severe psychological conditions or treatment-resistant symptoms. While it can form a part of someone's treatment plan, it may not be the only treatment.
Types of psychotherapy: Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Disclaimer: If you are experiencing thoughts or urges of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text 988 to talk to someone over SMS. They are available 24/7 to offer support.
Developed in the 1970s, dialectic behavior therapy (DBT) was initially used to treat individuals who were chronically preoccupied with suicidal thoughts or living with borderline personality disorder (BPD). DBT has since become a psychotherapy for treating individuals experiencing severe emotional dysregulation or treatment-resistant symptoms.
The dialectical part of dialectical behavioral therapy employs the idea of two opposites—acceptance and change—coming together.
Functions of DBT
- Emotional control
- Distress tolerance
- Mindfulness
- Interpersonal effectiveness
DBT combines different types of therapy: individual therapy, and group therapy, along with team consultation, and telehealth. The therapist uses individual sessions to bond with the client and understand their unique needs and challenges, while the different types of group therapy may enable the clients to enhance their behavioral skills and practice what they have learned. It may also allow them to feel motivated and supported.
Stabilization
Emotional distress
Quality of life
The next steps with therapy
Psychotherapy can help with more than severe types of mental health concerns
It is a common misconception that these types of psychotherapy only serve people diagnosed with severe mental health conditions. It is this belief that may further stigmatize seeking counseling or therapy.
While psychotherapy can effectively address mental health disorders, it can be acceptable and normal for individuals to seek therapeutic guidance for various issues not related to a mental health diagnosis. Over 41 million US adults attend therapy each year.
The causes for going to therapy can vary but might include the following:
- Coping with a significant life event such as losing employment, experiencing a death in the family, reconciling the end of a relationship, welcoming the birth of a child, or moving
- Resolving conflicts
- Recovering from a traumatic experience
- Relieving stress or anxiety
- Gaining self-compassion, self-esteem, and self-understanding
- Family concerns
- Learning coping skills to handle stress and negative feelings
- Seeking a supportive environment to express feelings
- Cope with daily life stressors
Many therapists employ different approaches to provide effective treatment that is tailored to the needs of their patients. When looking for a mental health professional, it's also important to check the therapist's credentials—whether they are licensed, their experience, and qualifications for working with the modality you're interested in.
Types of psychotherapy covered by insurance
However, since many insurance plans require a mental health diagnosis to offer coverage for psychotherapy, it's advisable to check your policy beforehand. Some people are also concerned that a mental health diagnosis will go on their medical record, so prefer to pay out of pocket, in which case there are affordable options available, such as online psychotherapy.
Mental health and self-fulfillment
Along with the benefits of talk therapy to address mental health challenges and concerns, psychotherapy may also serve individuals to realize their ultimate goals in life.
In psychology, the concept of self-actualization refers to our innate need to realize our full potential, developing our abilities and appreciation for life in authentic, creative ways. Originally developed by Kurt Goldstein, Carl Rogers, and Abraham Maslow, this need for fulfillment figures on top of Maslow's hierarchy of needs, tending to arise once other needs have been met. For many people, self-fulfillment and authentic living may a major life goals, which can be explored in psychotherapy.
Different types of counseling options
Online therapy can be as impactful as in-person types of psychotherapy. Studies conducted on the use of internet-based CBT in pediatric clients diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) showed an average savings amount of $144.98 per client compared to in-person treatments.
Online mental health treatment including psychotherapy
Many forms of psychotherapy are available online and in person. With online therapy, you can choose between phone, video, or live chat sessions with your licensed therapist. If you are interested in speaking with a licensed professional, consider signing up for a platform like BetterHelp, which offers a therapist match from their list of thousands of qualified therapists within 24 to 48 hours of signing up.
Takeaway
Psychotherapy can effectively treat many mental health conditions, symptoms, and concerns. Depending on your insurance requirements, you do not have to have a mental health condition or diagnosis to attend therapy. If you're interested in learning more about the therapy process or other types of counseling methods, consider reaching out to a therapist for further insight.
What are the four major groups of psychotherapy?
There are four main psychotherapy types:
Psychodynamic psychotherapy, an approach in which the practitioner targets problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors by discovering their unconscious thoughts, meanings and motivations
Behavior therapy, which uses a learning approach to minimize abnormal behaviors and maximize healthy ones
Cognitive therapy, which facilitates healthier thinking patterns with the idea that dysfunctional thinking leads to dysfunctional behaviors, while functional thinking leads to functional behaviors
Humanistic therapy, which focuses on reaching maximum potential and emphasizes concern and respect for others
What is the most common psychotherapy?
There are several evidence-based therapy approaches that are often used to manage mental health issues.
Cognitive behavioral therapy identifies problematic thoughts and behaviors, and offers strategies to shift them into healthier directions
Interpersonal therapy focuses on healing interpersonal relationships with family members, friends, and romantic partners to resolve conflicts
Psychodynamic therapy addresses current mental health issues by delving into past traumas and relationships
Which type of psychotherapy is most effective?
What is the difference between counseling and psychotherapy?
Typically, counseling is recommended to target specific problems like grief, addiction, or divorce in a short-term, while psychotherapy takes more of a long-term approach, tackling mental conditions or mental illness by exploring past issues that may be contributing to the present.
What are the three key concepts of psychotherapy?
The three concepts that drive psychotherapy include:
The therapeutic relationship
Communication and creating dialogue
Tackling problematic thoughts and behaviors
What are the goals of cognitive behavioral therapy?
CBT involves working on a person’s thoughts and behaviors. A CBT therapist will help to identify disordered thoughts and behaviors, and then offer techniques to challenge and change them over time. They also share coping strategies to help manage stress and improve overall mental health.
What is the most effective mental health treatment?
The most effective mental health treatment is one that a client responds to and actively participates in. There are a number of evidence-based, effective mental health approaches, as well as types of practitioners. Licensed social workers, psychologists, psychiatric nurses, therapists, and more. Which will be “best” can depend on the situation, what needs to be treated, location and availability, and personal preferences. Often your primary care provider can help point you in the right direction to get started.
What is the main focus of therapy?
Therapy was developed and designed to treat psychological disorders and mental distress through evidence-based techniques. Trained therapists will apply these techniques to help with specific or general problems like major life change, addiction, or conflict with family members.
Is it better to see a counselor or therapist for bipolar disorder?
For a complex mental health condition like bipolar disorder, a therapist is likely to be recommended. Therapists work in a long-term capacity, and specialize in the treatment of mental health disorders.
Should I see a psychologist or psychotherapist?
A psychotherapist is any therapist that practices psychotherapy (talk therapy), while a psychologist studies the process of the human mind and behavior. Some psychologists take on a research role, however a counseling or clinical psychologist practices is considered a psychotherapist.
Whether you see a counseling psychologist, or another type of psychotherapist may depend on availability, recommendations from a healthcare practitioner, or which individual specializes in your challenge or disorder.
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