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March 10th, 2025
Psychotherapy Model
What is psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is a supportive process where you talk with a trained therapist to work through emotional and mental health challenges. In these sessions, you have a safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings, gaining insights and learning healthier ways to cope. Therapists are there to understand your unique needs and help you manage stress, improve relationships and navigate life’s difficulties. It’s a journey towards greater well-being, offering you the tools to lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.
What are the different kinds of psychotherapy?
Due to the variety of issues a person may face, there are multiple types of psychotherapy available, each targeting specific concerns. Many of these therapies can be used together and have different applications. Here are a few examples of psychotherapy:
Therapy | What it is | Effective for |
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) | Focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviours. It involves working with a therapist to develop coping strategies and problem-solving skills. | Anxiety disorders, depression, phobias, PTSD, managing stress, improving sleep, handling chronic pain |
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) | A specialised form of CBT that emphasises balancing acceptance and change. Includes individual therapy, group skills training and phone coaching. | Borderline personality disorder, self-harm behaviours, chronic suicidal ideation, eating disorders, mood disorders |
Psychodynamic Therapy | Delves into the unconscious mind to uncover deep-seated emotional conflicts and motivations. Involves exploring past experiences and relationships to understand current behaviour patterns. | Depression, anxiety, relationship issues, complex trauma, personal growth, deeper self-awareness |
Humanistic Therapy | Emphasises personal growth and self-actualisation. Provides a non-judgmental, supportive environment to explore feelings and achieve potential. | Depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship problems, seeking a more meaningful and fulfilling life |
Family Therapy | Involves treating the family unit as a whole. Focuses on improving communication, resolving conflicts and fostering healthy relationships within the family system. | Marital problems, parent-child conflicts, effects of addiction or mental illness on the family, major life transitions |
Group Therapy | Involves a small group of people with similar issues meeting regularly under the guidance of a therapist. Provides a supportive environment to share experiences and learn from others. | Depression, anxiety, addiction, social skills deficits, building a support network |
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) | A specialised therapy that helps individuals process and recover from traumatic experiences. Involves guided eye movements or other bilateral stimulation while recalling distressing memories. | PTSD, trauma-related disorders, anxiety, phobias, panic disorders |
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) | Combines traditional cognitive therapy with mindfulness strategies. Helps individuals become more aware of their thoughts and feelings in the present moment without judgement. | Preventing relapse in depression, reducing anxiety, managing stress, chronic pain, promoting overall well-being |