Therapy, also known as psychotherapy, is often times a big step that many are apprehensive to take primarily due to fears of being judged or worries that it may not work. According to research, the most important aspect of therapy is the relationship that the patient forms with the therapist, allowing the patient to be open and comfortable while working on resolving pertinent problems. There are also various methods that could be implemented in group, individual, couples, or family therapy sessions that help individuals target specific concerns or problems. The following are some of the most widely used therapy models :
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely used methods of therapy primarily due to the amount of empirical research that supports its’ effectiveness. A CBT-focused therapist assists the patient in making connections between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and how some of their unhealthy thoughts may ultimately cause negative emotions and behaviors. The patient then learns to restructure their thoughts, producing more positive feelings in order to engage in healthier behaviors.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT):
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is similar to CBT, but emphasizes the importance of validating and accepting uncomfortable thoughts. As a result, the individual does not view change as an impossible task to achieve and the therapist assists the individual in developing more effective coping mechanisms as well as mindful practices.
Coaching:
Many individuals seek guidance from clinicians in order to achieve set goals. Therapists tend to take a more proactive approach during life coaching sessions rather than focusing on specific mental health diagnoses. For example, an adolescent may benefit from life coaching in order to achieve goals, including graduating high school, applying to college, or embarking on a new career path. Professionals also often seek like coaching services with goals of advancing in their career or starting a new business.
Structural Family Therapy:
Structural family therapy’s main goal is to focus on structural changes within a family while the therapist acts as an active facilitator in the process of restructuring the family. It explains that families engage in certain patterns of transactions and this creates the resemblance of having structure. The first few stages of therapy should focus on structural mapping, in which family members will began to understand problems beyond the individual family members. When children are involved, it is important for the therapist to reinforce or encourage the parents’ positive behaviors towards their children and each other. Goals include, but would not be limited to: differentiating particular family members to help an individual become more autonomous, as well as encouraging healthy communication between all the family members.
Interpersonal Therapy:
Interpersonal therapy was first developed for individuals experiencing symptoms of depression. This method primarily focuses on the individual’s interpersonal relationships and ways to increase interpersonal skills. Negative patterns of communication are identified and the therapist assists the patient in increasing positive interactions while gaining a better understanding of others.
Play Therapy:
In play therapy, parents gain insight into their children’s feelings and behaviors and understand how the child may be dealing with a divorce, the death of a loved one, or other environmental stressor. This technic also provides an opportunity for children to connect with their parents while the therapist may encourage the parents to let the child take the lead. In my opinion, this allows children to take control and communicate their fears or overwhelming emotions in a developmentally appropriate way.
Contact Us
The Miami Psychology Group office is located in the heart of Miami Beach, steps away from Lincoln Road. Please contact Miami Psychology Group to set up an appointment.
Contact Us