Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT is a structured, time-limited therapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT works on the principle that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interdependent - meaning changing negative thought patterns may result in changes to feelings or behavior.
Conditions Treated
There are various conditions treated through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, here is a sample list:
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Phobias
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- OCD
- Eating disorders
- Substance abuse
Techniques Employed
CBT employs different strategies such as these for effective results:
- Cognitive restructuring involves recognizing and challenging negative thoughts.
- Behavioral activation refers to engaging in activities that improve mood.
- Exposure therapy refers to gradually facing fears in a controlled manner.
- Mindfulness refers to paying attention to what's going on now to reduce stress.
What to Expect
In Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), clients can expect to work collaboratively with their therapist to set goals and develop coping strategies. Online therapy sessions usually consist of discussing current issues, practicing techniques, and reviewing progress - usually between 12-20 sessions long.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Mindfulness-based therapy uses mindfulness techniques such as meditation and deep breathing to increase individuals' awareness of their thoughts and emotions while encouraging an accepting attitude toward one's experiences.
Conditions Treated
This therapy has proven useful for treating conditions including:
- Stress
- anxiety
- Depression
- Chronic pain
- Eating disorders
Techniques Used
- Mindfulness Meditation: Focusing attention on the present moment.
- Body Scan: Raising awareness of bodily sensations.
- Breathing Exercises: Promoting relaxation and relieving stress.
- Mindful Movements: Integrating mindfulness into physical activities like Yoga.
What to Expect
Clients can expect to learn and practice mindfulness techniques during sessions with their therapist, who will lead them through exercises designed to incorporate them into daily life. Mindfulness-based therapy may involve short or long-term programs depending on each client's unique requirements.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a multidimensional evidence-based treatment approach developed for those experiencing severe emotional dysregulation. DBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques and mindfulness principles into one effective program,
Conditions Treated
DBT is particularly effective for:
- Borderline personality disorder
- Self-harm
- Suicidal behavior
- Eating disorders
- PTSD
Techniques Used
- Mindfulness: Being present in the moment.
- Distress tolerance: Responding effectively to crises without exacerbating them.
- Emotion regulation: Understanding and controlling vulnerability to emotion.
- Interpersonal effectiveness: Cultivating healthy relationships while honing assertiveness skills.
What to Expect
DBT typically involves individual therapy sessions, group skills training sessions, and phone coaching to teach and practice skills in a supportive environment. DBT may last from several months up to one year depending on its structure.
Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic Therapy seeks to understand unconscious processes that influence behavior, uncovering deep-seated emotional conflicts and patterns created by early experiences. This type of online therapy has proven particularly successful at treating depression, anxiety, personality disorders, relationship issues, and trauma.
Techniques Used
- Free association: Encouraging clients to speak freely to express unconscious thoughts.
- Dream analysis: Interpreting dreams to interpret emotions that lie buried deep within.
- Transference: Exploring feelings shifted onto other relationships by the client.
What to Expect
Clients can anticipate exploring past experiences and unconscious motivations that influence current behavior and relationships, with psychodynamic therapy often lasting months to years.
Humanistic Therapy
Humanistic Therapy emphasizes personal growth and self-actualization through self-exploration and awareness. It focuses on unlocking each individual's potential while stressing self-exploration and awareness as important tools of therapy.
Conditions Treated
Humanistic Therapy can be useful in treating:
- Depression
- anxiety
- Self-esteem issues
- Relationship difficulties
- Personal development problems
Techniques Used:
- Client-centered Therapy: Fostering an environment free from judgment or criticism.
- Gestalt Therapy: Raising Awareness of Thoughts and Feelings in the Present Moment.
- Existential Therapy: Examining Life Meaning and Individual Freedom.
What to Expect
Clients can anticipate a supportive and accepting atmosphere where they can explore their feelings and experiences freely without judgment from a therapist. Humanistic Therapy can serve both short- and long-term needs depending on individual client goals.