So, you’ve decided to get therapy. That’s a great step in taking care of your mental health. But are you unsure of what type of therapy you may need? If so, don’t worry. This blog will inform and guide you on the common types of therapy and which may work for you.

What Exactly Is Therapy?

Therapy, also known as counseling or psychotherapy, involves meeting with a therapist to address problematic behaviors, beliefs, feelings, and relationship issues. Starting therapy can be a significant step towards achieving optimal health and living the best life possible despite any obstacles you may face. By engaging in therapy, you can alter self-destructive habits, overcome painful emotions, improve your relationships, and more.

Types of Therapy

1. Cognitive Behavior Therapy(CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy that aims to alter the way you perceive and react to your thoughts in a brief amount of time. It involves various techniques, such as Cognitive Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.

CBT might be right if: 

You struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, or depression. Additionally, individuals with phobias, addiction, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can also benefit from these types of therapies.

2. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive behavior therapy that focuses on teaching problem-solving techniques and acceptance strategies.

DBT might be right if: 

You have tried different types of therapy without success. DBT is mainly used to treat issues such as self-harm, destructive thought patterns, eating disorders, and borderline personality disorder.

3. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) is a popular form of psychotherapy that has gained traction in recent years. It is designed specifically to address the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other traumatic experiences. It is important to ensure that your therapist is certified to administer this technique. When done right, EMDR can be highly beneficial and is compatible with other forms of therapy.

EMDR might be right if: 

You have experienced trauma or deeply stressful events that are causing extreme anxiety.

4. Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is another cognitive behavioral technique. MBCT uses mindfulness to help individuals recognize and comprehend their negative thoughts, which can help them distance themselves from those thoughts and change their reactions.

MBCT might be right if:

You suffer from recurrent depression. It can also be useful for many mental health issues.

5. Psychoanalysis

For many years, psychoanalysis has been utilized as a form of therapy. It has received both criticism and updates over time. When people hear the term “talk therapy,” it is often the first thing that comes to mind. Despite its criticisms, it remains a popular form of therapy and can effectively bring unresolved unconscious issues to the surface for analysis and resolution.

Psychoanalysis might be right if: 

You have anxiety or self-esteem issues you want to explore further.

6. Psychodynamic Therapy

Psychodynamic therapy is a form of psychotherapy based on psychoanalysis, but it is simpler. Your therapist will take the time to understand your emotions, beliefs, and life experiences in order to help you identify and modify repetitive patterns. This type of therapy can last a few months or up to two years.

Psychodynamic Therapy might be right if:

You seem to be doing okay, but your past may be affecting your future. Psychodynamic Therapy is a versatile treatment option.

7. Systemic Therapy

Systemic Therapy is a type of talk therapy that examines the relationship between a person’s behavior patterns, life choices, and personal connections and how they relate to the difficulties they experience in their life.

Systemic Therapy might be right if:

Your emotions may be repressed or denied because of a fear of being seen as selfish or causing harm to others.

Take Your Time

When it comes to finding the right therapist for you, it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences. Luckily, this post will guide you in figuring out the type of therapy best suited for you.

Finding someone who fits you and your specific needs may take time and trial and error. But with patience and persistence, you can find the support and care you need to prioritize your mental health and well-being.

Information Sources:

• https://www.twochairs.com/blog/what-kind-of-therapist-do-i-need
• https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-systemic-therapy-5215847