All Therapy is Not the Same – what type of treatment works for you?
Have you ever had a conversation with someone and ask them if they’ve gone to therapy? They respond that they’ve tried it, but it “doesn’t work for them. Maybe you have been the person that says therapy doesn’t work. Saying that seeing a therapist isn’t working for you is like saying that all foods taste the same. We know that that isn’t true. Macaroni and cheese doesn’t taste like steak. Coffee does not taste like orange juice. In the same way that all foods are different, all mental health professionals have their own style, and each type of therapy is unique. Here are some different types of therapeutic treatment and how they work. After reading this, you will understand that therapy can be a unique experience for each person.
Psychoanalysis
Psychoanalysis is an intensive form of mental health treatment where the individual meets with their therapist three or more times during the week. They talk about childhood trauma, issues with their parents, and deep-seated mental health concerns. Psychoanalysis is not for the faint-hearted. If you make a commitment to see an analyst, it’s because you want to delve deep into your past and find out the root of your problems. You need to be comfortable with getting uncomfortable. Psychoanalysis can be a great way to problem-solve. You can determine what patterns are in your life and what you want to change. You may see some trends in relationships that you can trace back to your childhood. An analyst will help you to understand these patterns and make life changes.
Cognitive behavioral therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy is the type of mental health treatment where you are changing the way that you think so that you change the way that you feel. We all have negative thoughts that go through our heads. Imagine you do poorly on an exam, and think “I’m a failure.” In cognitive behavioral therapy, this is a cognitive distortion called “labeling.” You’re calling yourself a failure, and it is contributing to negative self-perception. In reality, you failed one test, and it does not mean that you will continue to fail in life. CBT helps people understand their negative thinking patterns and helps reframe these thoughts so that the person can combat anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues such as OCD or even substance abuse. Cognitive behavioral therapy is an excellent way to make positive changes in your life and start feeling better about yourself.
Art therapy
Art therapy (or creative arts therapy) is a form of mental health treatment where people use the arts to express feelings and move through pain. A lot of times, people who’ve experienced trauma can use our therapy (whether it’s dance, music, or fine arts) mental health treatment to express how they feel. Sometimes it’s easier to create something to express your feelings rather than talk about them. Our therapy can be used for people of all ages, starting from children to senior clients. Some people use dance or singing so that the person can release the emotional feelings that they are experiencing. Our therapy is great for children who have difficulty verbalizing their feelings and as well as adults.
You don’t have to be an artist to engage in this form of treatment. It’s a matter of being willing to find a different way to express your feelings rather than talking about them. However, you will start by drawing the feelings, dancing them out, or any other form of artistic expression, and eventually, you’ll feel comfortable talking about your emotions and getting support for them.
Couples counseling
Therapy is not only for individuals. When you see a therapist, you can go with your partner to work out any issues in your relationship. Going to couples counseling doesn’t mean your relationship is failing. In fact, seeing a therapist can help your relationship succeed. Having an impartial person to talk to you about these challenges can help people learn to communicate better and deal with issues surrounding intimacy. A couples counselor is neutral and does not take one person’s side. Remember, if you find your counselor is siding with one person in a therapy session, it’s important to point that out. A couples therapist needs to be on both of your sides. They’re supposed to be impartial so that they can communicate and mediate between the two people. Sometimes people choose couples counseling to help their relationship succeed, and other times they use it as a way to peacefully separate. It’s a versatile form of therapy that can help couples heal.
Online therapy
You can see a therapist in person, and in addition, online therapy is a great place to learn about your feelings. You can talk with a virtual counselor in the privacy of your own home or anywhere that you feel comfortable. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. They are trained counselors available with a company like BetterHelp. Whatever kind of therapy you choose, make sure that it’s working for you and it’s improving your quality-of-life.
Marie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health- related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.
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