Different Options of Therapy by Phoenyx Greicius & Lindsay Tran
When searching for a therapist, you’ll likely see that each has different orientations and specializations. All types of therapy have a few things in common, such as building a strong relationship between the client and the therapist (Cuijpers, 2019). However, there are also factors that are specific to each theoretical orientation. For example, while humanistically oriented therapists focus on helping the client with self-actualization, cognitive-behavioral therapists target their clients’ maladaptive thoughts and behaviors (American Psychological Association, 2009). When searching for a therapist, though, you may not be sure which orientation is right for you. If this is something you’re dealing with, here are some quick summaries of each type!
Psychodynamic Therapy
Focuses on uncovering unconscious motivations and how they result in problematic behaviors.
Therapist and client explore the therapeutic relationship to help the client learn about themselves
Based on Sigmund Freud’s ideas, but has been modified
Interpersonal therapy
Focuses on awareness and exploring specific interpersonal disputes to improve their communication and positive changes in their relationships.
Sessions are limited to 12-16 sessions, but can be 1-on-1 or group sessions.
A non judgemental guide is used to examine the client’s problem and work to uplight emotional well-being contributing healthy and fulfilling social relationships.
Humanistic therapy
Focuses on helping people realize their full potential.
Gestalt therapy falls under this branch, emphasizing self-awareness and being accepting of the present.
Existential therapy also falls under this branch, emphasizing people’s search for meaning in life
Behavioral Therapy
Focuses on learning principles, including classical and operant conditioning, and how they apply to the development of normal and abnormal behaviors.
The therapist and client work together to identify problematic behaviors and replace them with adaptive ones (American Psychological Association, 2019).
Cognitive Therapy
Focuses on people’s thoughts, and how maladaptive ones lead to maladaptive emotions and behaviors
The therapist helps the client change their thoughts to change their feelings and actions
Cognitive-behavioral therapy combines cognitive and behavioral therapy, acknowledging the influence of both behaviors and thoughts in psychological disorders
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
Based on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) but adapted for those who experience intense emotions, such as those with borderline personality disorder or those who engage in self-harm (Cleveland Clinic, 2022).
Called “dialectical” because it balances the seemingly opposing ideas of accepting the present and promoting change.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Focuses on identifying your feelings and thought processes by reworking negative perceptions into positive thoughts.
Encourages healthier perception and habits by practicing present-oriented and non judgment coping techniques.
Meditation, body scan exercises, mindfulness practices and stretching, and yoga are techniques used in mindfulness-based therapy.
Somatic psychotherapy
Focuses on treating trauma through a body-mind connection through physical responses.
Utilizes self-regulation, grounding, boundary development, and movement (MBG Health, 2021).
Group therapy
Focuses on introducing connections and perspectives with those who are experiencing similar obstacles.
Offers a sense of interpersonal support, belonging, and unique viewpoints to better understand oneself.
There are tons of variety in therapy practices, all utilizing unique and eye-opening techniques. Everyone has different needs and goals so it’s important not to single out a specific therapy approach just because the first one doesn’t work out. By identifying what therapeutic method works with us, we are one step closer to improving our own self-worth and well-being!
Maximizing the Benefits of Therapy by Lindsay Tran
Once you find the most effective form of therapy for you, it’s important to recognize how to make the most of it. Studies found that 80% of people who received psychotherapy experienced greater life satisfaction compared to those who didn’t (American Psychology Association, 2012). Therapy is unique because it not only requires the collaboration of other mental health professionals, but it also requires active effort from you. Being responsive and consistent throughout the process will maximize the effectiveness of the therapeutic process (American Psychology Association, 2019).
Moreover, therapy is most effective when there is a mutually respectful alliance between the therapist and client allowing them to work together meeting the client’s needs and goals. As your therapist is coming up with a treatment plan, allow for an open dialogue and provide them feedback on how they can tailor to your approach. Be honest if you find their methods and practices to be unhelpful, and don’t be hesitant in exploring other therapists. A true therapist-client relationship contributes greatly to the success of the process by catering an emotional and supportive environment for the client to explore their thoughts and challenges.
Local Therapy Resources by Phoenyx Greicius
Now that you know about the different types of therapy and its benefits, you may be wondering what resources are available on campus. First, UCI has its own Counseling Center. They offer individual, relationship, and group therapy. While their individual and relationship therapy services are short-term, there is no limit to their group therapy services. They also have peer programs. Those who are a part of the Peer Educator Program offer services like stress management and relaxation training. Creating Options and Conquering Hurdles, or COACH, is another peer program that centers on goal-setting and motivation. You can find more detailed information about the Counseling Center on their website or by calling them at (949) 824-6457.
In addition to on-campus resources, there are online resources available to students. Lyra is a network where you can find resources for mental and emotional health, such as therapists and intensive programs. This is especially helpful if you’d like to find a therapist who can work with you for a longer period of time or who has a certain specialization. If you are covered by UC SHIP, then you do not have to pay to access this service and no referral is necessary. Lastly, there is Therapy Assisted Online (TAO). This is a self-help platform that is free to UCI students. It educates students on the topic of wellness and helps them develop relevant skills. If you are interested in utilizing any of these resources, you can find more information about them here. We hope this has helped you on your mental health and wellness journey!
References
American Psychological Association. (2019). Depression treatments for adults. https://www.apa.org/depression-guideline/adults/
American Psychological Association. (2009). Different approaches to psychotherapy. https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/approaches
American Psychological Association. (2012). Understanding psychotherapy and how it works. https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/understanding
Cleveland Clinic. (2022). Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22838-dialectical-behavior-therapy-dbt#:~:text=Dialectical%20behavior%20therapy%20(DBT)%20is,mental%20health%20conditions%20as%20well
Cuijpers, P., Reijnders, M., & Huibers, M. J. (2019). The role of common factors in psychotherapy outcomes. Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, 15(1), 207–231. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-050718-095424
DeAngelis T. (2019). Better relationships with patients lead to better outcomes https://www.apa.org/monitor/2019/11/ce-corner-relationships
Nguyen, J. (2021). 15 Types Of Therapy To Know + How To Find The Best One For You https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/types-of-therapy
Schimelpfening, N. (2023). How mindfulness-based cognitive therapy works. https://www.verywellmind.com/mindfulness-based-cognitive-therapy-1067396
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