Types of Therapy
When seeking therapy, it's helpful to understand the various therapeutic approaches available. Each approach offers a unique perspective and set of techniques to address mental and emotional challenges. Our therapists draw from these diverse approaches to empower individuals on their journey to healing, growth, and self-discovery.
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Just like all the different forms of art (performance, studio, architecture, writing) and the even more nuanced categories within that (watercolor, oils, acrylic), every therapist has their own personal style and approach to helping. There are many different approaches to therapy and it can be overwhelming looking through all the categories. You definitely don’t need to be an expert, but knowing some of the differences and finding the one that’s best for you can help your work be more effective and meaningful for you.
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Very broadly:
Some providers focus on healing through changes in behavior.
Some providers focus on healing through relationships.
Some providers focus on healing through understanding emotions.
Some providers focus on healing through internal body awareness
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Each style has unique advantages and many providers have a personal style that blends approaches.
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Thinking about: How do I learn best? What do I want to get out of my experience (insight, skills, expression)? can help you match a style with your goals.
Asking a potential therapist questions to help inform your choice: How do you help people get better? What style do you use to work with clients? What do appointments look like?
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Some types of therapy include:
​1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
CBT is a widely used and evidence-based approach that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. By challenging irrational beliefs and developing healthier coping strategies, individuals can break free from cycles of anxiety, depression, and other emotional difficulties.
2. Psychodynamic Therapy:
Psychodynamic therapy explores the unconscious mind and how past experiences shape present thoughts and behaviors. Through introspection and analysis of early relationships, this approach aims to gain insight into unresolved conflicts, leading to personal growth and healing.
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3. Mindfulness-Based Therapy:
Mindfulness-based therapies, such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), emphasize living in the present moment and accepting thoughts and emotions without judgment. These approaches empower individuals to manage stress, improve focus, and cultivate self-compassion.
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4. Family Systems Therapy:
Family Systems Therapy views individuals within the context of their family dynamics and relationships. By addressing family patterns and communication styles, this approach seeks to improve family cohesion and resolve conflicts for enhanced emotional well-being.
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5. Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT):
SFBT is a goal-oriented approach that concentrates on finding practical solutions rather than dwelling on problems. Therapists work collaboratively with clients to identify their strengths and resources, fostering positive change and achieving specific objectives.
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6. Gestalt Therapy:
Gestalt Therapy emphasizes the integration of mind, body, and emotions. This experiential approach encourages clients to become more aware of their present experiences and take responsibility for their actions, leading to increased self-awareness and personal growth.
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7. Narrative Therapy:
Narrative Therapy focuses on separating individuals from their problems by examining the stories they tell about themselves. By reframing negative narratives, clients can construct a more empowering and hopeful self-concept, enabling positive change.
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8. Art Therapy:
Art Therapy utilizes various art forms as a means of self-expression and exploration. Through creativity, individuals can process emotions, gain insights, and develop new perspectives, making it an excellent option for those who struggle with verbal expression.
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9. Existential Therapy:
Existential Therapy delves into questions about the meaning of life and the individual's purpose. By exploring existential concerns, clients can develop a stronger sense of self and align their actions with their values and beliefs.
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10. Trauma-Informed Therapy:
Trauma-Informed Therapy recognizes the impact of past traumas on an individual's mental and emotional well-being. By providing a safe and supportive environment, therapists can help clients process traumatic experiences and facilitate healing.
EMDR
What is EMDR Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma. EMDR is a set of standardized protocols that incorporates elements from different treatment approaches.
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How does EMDR work?
EMDR therapy is an integrative psychotherapy and uses a technique called bilateral stimulation to repeatedly activate opposite sides of the brain. Therapists often use eye movements to facilitate the bilateral stimulation. These eye movements mimic the period of sleep referred to as rapid eye movement or REM sleep, and this portion of sleep is frequently considered to be the time when the mind processes the recent events in the person’s life.
EMDR seems to help the brain reprocess the trapped memories is such a way that normal information processing is resumed. Therapists often use EMDR to help clients uncover and process beliefs that developed as the result of relational traumas, or childhood abuse and/or neglect. For a more detailed explanation please visit EMDR Institute, Inc.
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What does EMDR help?
EMDR had been originally established as helpful for PTSD, although it’s been proven useful for treatment in the following conditions:
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Panic Attacks
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Complicated Grief
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Dissociative Orders
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Disturbing Memories
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Phobias
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Pain Disorders
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Performance Anxiety
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Addictions
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Stress Reduction
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Sexual and/or Physical Abuse
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Body Dysmorphic Disorders
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Personality Disorders
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None of the above symptoms or experiences fit you?
Do you experience distressing emotions that appear to you, and perhaps to others, to be excessive given the current situation? Do you tend to be highly reactive to certain triggers? Is there one or more dysfunctional belief that you believe about yourself that on an intellectual level you know is not true?
If so, you may still be a good candidate for EMDR therapy. You and your clinician will collaborate on a treatment plan that best fits your needs.