Are you more introverted or extraverted? Do you want to get to the root of your problems or just address a specific situation? These are some important questions to be asked when choosing the type of therapy that is best for you, as what may work for a particular patient may not be the most suitable for another.
The search for therapies has been increasing. Whether to seek greater emotional balance and take care of mental health, or to go deeper into issues related to anxiety and depression, for example.
The fact is that this demand has progressively increased.
But after all, what is therapy?
The therapy is a way to help people manage their emotions and deal with feelings common day to day as frustration, expectation, sadness, or anger. In addition, it supports a number of problems and issues related to mental health and self-knowledge. The therapy also works in the treatment of:
- Anxiety;
- Depression;
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD);
- Anorexia;
- Bipolar disorder;
- Borderline Disorder.
These are just some of the disorders treated in the office. There are a range of issues that can be resolved, so there are also different types of approaches. Follow the reading and learn more about each one of them and find out which model is best suited for your case.
Psychoanalysis
Psychoanalysis was created by Freud. This psychotherapy model aims to analyze the unconscious, therefore, sessions are usually long and intense.
The professional proposes some questions related to the problems that took the patient to the office and allows him to open up about his thoughts and feelings. The intention is to make the patient draw his own conclusions, understand the situation and find the best way to deal with it. Furthermore, the consultations aim to get to the root of the problem and discover its essence.
There is no time limit or specific for this type of therapy, this will vary depending on the patient's background and issues. So they can last for years.
Jungian
This psychotherapy model is based on Carl Jung's method. Professionals who follow this model usually rely on artistic methods and dreams to carry out the analyses. Therefore, it has a more playful character. Symbols, drawings, and objects are also used in order to create an imaginary scenario.
The objective is to help in-depth self-knowledge and analyze the patient's beliefs and personality traits.
Cognitive-behavioral
The therapy cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) into one of the many existing branches in the behavioral field. For example, it is indicated to treat specific and specific problems, such as anxiety or binge eating.
CBT is one of the best known types and is associated with how we interpret life situations. The therapist assesses how the patient feels or thinks in everyday situations. The focus is also to ward off some sabotaging thoughts and limiting beliefs like "I'm not good enough", "I'll never make it".
The length of time will vary depending on the problem or issue being treated, but it usually lasts 20-30 sessions.
Gestalt
In this type of treatment, external factors and the environment in which the patient lives are analyzed: environment, friends, family, work, and how he behaves in this environment. The goal is to make the patient find new ways to face situations that are challenging for him.
The therapist listens to the client and analyzes their gestures, tone of voice, posture, and expressions, thus focusing on the present moment. Gestalt is indicated for those who want to enhance skills and work on personality traits.
Lacanian
This method was created by the psychoanalyst Jacques Lacan, based on the works of Sigmund Freud. Its main objective is to discover the patient's main complaints and explore his unconscious.
During the sessions, the patient is induced to speak openly about any subject that comes to his mind, without following a specific order or criterion. The professional seeks to identify the manifestations of the patient's unconscious in order to assist him in solving the problem.
Session durations vary according to each individual's personal analysis. Typically each session lasts from 45 to 50 minutes.
Behaviorist
In the behaviorist method, human behavior is the main point to be considered. The psychologist works the complaints and fears of patients in a more direct way, helping to change certain patient behaviors. Some types of exercises are applied for the patient to face their limitations.
This type of therapy is the most suitable for those who want to change certain behaviors or overcome fears and insecurities.
How do I know which type of therapy to choose?
Sometimes there may be a lack of affinity with the chosen therapy model or even with the professional. Therefore, it is best to make an initial appointment with the professional to learn about their work and approach. That way, you will have an idea of how it will work and fit your goals.
In some cases, it may be necessary to do a few more sessions to see if you really feel comfortable. Feeling good and comfortable to open up with the professional is essential.
Remember to carefully reflect on each type of approach, so that you can make the best choice and achieve the desired results.
