About Psychotherapy

What is Psychotherapy?

When should one go for psychotherapy?

Who does psychotherapy?

How do I select a psychotherapist?

What theoretical approach  should I choose?
Behavioral
Cognitive
Eclectic
Existential
Psychoanalysis
Psychodynamic

     What modality should I have?
Individual
Family
Group
Couples

What is Psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is the use of psychological techniques to change behaviors, feelings, thoughts, or habits. It is generally employed to relieve symptoms of emotional or behavioral dysfunction or distress, however it is also used to help people achieve greater levels of self awareness and to actualize latent potential.

There are a wide variety of psychotherapeutic modalities (e.g. individual, group, family) and theoretical approaches (e.g. psychodynamic, behavioral, cognitive ).

When should one go for psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is recommended for individuals experiencing symptoms of psychological distress. If you are depressed, anxious fearful, angry or don't feel in control of your life psychotherapy might help you. If you are unhappy, having relationship problems, or feel you are not living up to your potential psychotherapy can give help develop greater self awareness and support your efforts in improving your life.

If you are unsure about starting psychotherapy, consult a mental health professional for an assessment and evaluation to help in making the decision about whether to engage in psychotherapy and what kind.

Who does psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is practiced by a number of different mental health professionals. Although they have similarities in their approach to treatment, their varied training backgrounds sometimes lead them to choose different approaches and/or orientations. below is a table that summarizes some of the characteristics of different practitioners. The special orientations listed are generalizations and individuals may differ.

How do I select a psychotherapist?

The decision on who to choose as a psychotherapist is complicated by many variables. Here are  some of the important points to consider. 

• Reputation. Does the therapist come recommended by a friend, family member or professional? Have I read or heard about their work? If they are a member of local or national professional organizations you can call and ask about them. You can verify their licensure with your state and inquire about any complaints against them. Do they practice at an organization with a good reputation?

• Theoretical Orientation. Does their approach sound compatible with  your needs? If you feel relatively intact but want to change a habit now you might choose a behavioral approach over psychoanalysis.

• Personal Characteristics. Does the therapist seem compatible? The age, sex and cultural background of the therapist can be important in establishing rapport . If you are a fifty five year old woman struggling with woman's issues a twenty seven year old male therapist might not be your first choice.

• Cost. What is the fee? Do they accept my insurance plan? What are the alternatives in my area?

• Location. Can I conveniently get there? Remember psychotherapy might take many months or even longer.

Theoretical Approaches to Psychotherapy

There are a wide variety of theoretical approaches or orientations to psychotherapy. The choice of approach is usually determined by the training and experience of the therapist as well as the needs and desires of the patient. Some of the more widely used approaches are briefly described below.

Behavioral Therapy employs learning theory to effect changes in behavior. It is usually symptom focused as opposed to working on unconscious material. Unlearning unwanted behaviors (even thoughts and feelings can be viewed as behaviors) and learning desired behaviors is the work of behavior therapy.

Maladaptive habits are weakened and eliminated (extinguished) and adaptive habits developed and strengthened in very small steps (successive approximations). These changes are consolidated through reinforcements (rewards, either intrinsic or extrinsic) until stable behavior change is established.

Cognitive Therapy seeks to alter habitual maladaptive thought patterns. Unrealistic expectations, wishful thinking, living in the past (or future) and over generalizing can all lead to disappointment and frustration. Cognitive therapy emphasizes a rational and positive world view. It has proven to be especially effective with anxiety and depression.

Eclectic Therapy although not a formal school of thought, is the use of a combination of approaches or theoretical orientations. It is used by most therapists. There are many different blends. It is a recognition that individuals may benefit from a variety of techniques.  The eclectic approach can be flexible and adaptive and avoid forcing treatment into one size fits all limitations. It is necessary that the therapist be well grounded in several of the more orthodox  approaches to treatment rather than using bits and pieces through a lack of familiarity.

Existential Therapy is an approach that examines some of the major issues in our existence such as the meaning of life, loneliness, mortality, and the challenge of free will. It focuses on taking responsibility for ones choices and creating our own meaning and purpose. It is especially useful with the elderly and in working on issues of death and dying. Though it emphasizes needs of the individual it usually helps patients find new meaning in their relationships.

Psychoanalysis is the personality theory and psychotherapeutic approach pioneered by Sigmund Freud. Freud is known as the father of psychoanalysis. The approach emphasizes making the unconscious conscious and thereby giving the individual choices in life rather than being at the whim of unknown forces within themselves. Psychoanalysis frequently uses dreams and free associations (spontaneous uncensored communications) as the subject matter for treatment. . The therapist (analyst) says little but guides the patient in interpreting the meaning of the intrusion of unconscious material into everyday life. Sessions are frequent, up to five times per week, and treatment usually lasts for years.

Psychodynamic Psychotherapy is the term used to describe treatment approaches based on psychoanalytic principals, but which are conducted less frequently, over a shorter duration and allow a small amount of eclecticism. Psychodynamic therapists are more active (communicative) than psychoanalysts.

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