Therapy 101: How does it work?
Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy or simply “therapy,” is a type of treatment for mental health issues and emotional distress. It involves examining and gaining insight into life choices and difficulties faced by individuals, couples, or families. It is provided by any of a variety of trained professionals such as psychiatrists, psychologists or licensed counsellors. Therapy sessions are meetings between a client and a licensed professional with the intention of enhancing some aspect of the client’s life. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process between the client and therapist, both of whom are working towards the shared goal of improving aspects of the clients life and bringing about positive changes over time
Approaches to Psychotherapy
Psychotherapies can be broken down into two segments; one that follows a top – down approach and the others that follow a bottom – up approach.
| Top – Down Approach | Bottom – Up Approach |
|---|---|
| Research demonstrates that the top section of the brain is responsible for thinking, speaking and emotional awareness | The bottom section of the brain is thought to include the areas responsible for memories, impulses and survival responses. |
| Top – Down therapy usually entails working through things cognitively. | Bottom – Up therapy usually entails working through things somatically. |
| This involves working with thought patterns, communication, decision-making and problem-solving. | This involves understanding sensations, education on the nervous system, grounding, mindfulness and body awareness |
| Change thoughts to change how you feel | Transform feelings and body sensations to change thoughts |
| E.g. Cognitive Therapies, Narrative Therapy | E.g. Somatic Therapies, EMDR |
Types of Psychotherapy
There are many different types of therapies available, all which have their strengths and weaknesses. The therapy modality used, depends on the practitioner’s skills and the client’s needs. Some of the most common therapy modalities are explained below:
| Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT believes that there is a connection between our maladaptive thoughts, behaviours and physical symptoms, all of which have an impact on each other. Therefore, CBT focuses on breaking this cycle by either targeting and changing the clients’ thoughts or behaviours, using a number of techniques. |
Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT)
EFT uses emotions as a source of healing and insight. According to EFT, emotions are a guide for individual choice and decision making. This type of therapy assumes that lacking emotional awareness or avoiding unpleasant emotions can cause harm. |
| Person-Centred Therapy
Person centred therapy is a non-directive approach to therapy that requires the client to actively take control during each therapy session, while the therapist acts mainly as a source of support for the client. The most vital part of this therapy modality is to provide the client with a non-judgemental, supportive and conducive environment for them to make decisions independently |
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
DBT uses a problem solving and acceptance-based framework. It involves strategies such as core mindfulness and distress tolerance. It is usually used to treat severe mental health conditions, such as borderline personality disorder, suicidal ideation, self-harming, eating disorders and PTSD. |
In the journey towards healing and personal growth, therapy can be a guiding light that illuminates your path. It is a safe space where your voice can be heard, your emotions validated, and your experiences honored. As you embark on this transformative process, remember that you are not alone. You deserve compassionate support and understanding as you navigate life’s challenges. Therapy offers you the opportunity to cultivate self-awareness, resilience, and inner strength. Embrace the courage within you, knowing that seeking therapy is an act of self-care and an investment in your well-being. Together, with the empathetic guidance of a therapist, you can discover new insights, heal wounds, and forge a path towards a more empowered and fulfilling life.