How does therapy work?
Psychotherapy is an interpersonal, relational intervention used by trained psychotherapists to aid clients/patients in problems of living. Psychotherapy helps the person understand the connections of how their thoughts contribute to their behaviors. If people can identify their feelings and ways of thinking they become better at coping with difficult situations. Psychotherapists employ relationship building, dialogue, communication and behavior change that are designed to improve the mental health of a client or patient, or to improve group relationships (such as in a family).
Types of Psychotherapy
While many psychotherapists utilize talk therapy, there are usually a wide variety of techniques and practices used in practice. The exact approach used in each situation can vary based upon a variety of factors, including the preferences of the client and the exact nature of problem the client is experiencing.
Some of the major approaches to psychotherapy that I may practice include:
Psychoanalytic (Object Relations)
This theory suggests that people relate to others and situations in their adult lives as shaped by family experiences during infancy/adolescence.
Cognitive-Behavioral:
A type of psychotherapy that involves cognitive and behavioral techniques to change negative thoughts and maladaptive behaviors.
Solution Focused Therapy:
This approach does not focus on the past, but instead, focuses on the present and future. The therapist asks the client/patient to envision their preferred future and then questions are asked about the client’s story, strengths and resources, and about exceptions to the problem so that the therapist can assist the client/patient achieve their desired goal(s).
Client-Centered Therapy:
This is the foundational belief that people tend to move toward growth and healing, and have the capacity to find their own answers. The therapist listens and tries to understand how things are from the client's point of view, checks that understanding with the client if unsure and treats the client with the utmost respect and regard. The therapist isn't evaluating them in any way or trying to "figure them out".
E.M.D.R.
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy is an effective treatment for trauma, depression, anxiety and other serious mental disorders. The therapist utilizes directed lateral eye movements or other stimuli including hand-tapping and audio stimulation . E.M.D.R. therapy facilitates the accessing of the traumatic memory network, so that information processing is enhanced, with new associations forged between the traumatic memory and more adaptive memories or information.
*Offered for select patients at an added cost.
IN PERSON preferred but will do Telehealth due to distance from practice.
How long is the length of treatment?
People remain in treatment for various reasons depending on their goal(s) and their life challenges. Many people terminate treatment when the immediate problem abates; others remain longer to gain clarity and understanding of life. The bottom line is that you have many options and should discuss these with your therapist before terminating treatment.