Therapy and Theories
Whether you're new to therapy or a seasoned participant, have you ever pondered the intricacies of various therapy types and how therapists approach their work?
A professor of mine shared this idea with me that changed the way I look at therapy. Essentially, all our inner life can fall into the categories of thoughts, feelings and behaviors. And time then necessarily can either be past, present or future. For me, this was a helpful paradigm. If it was a small grid, it would be a 9 x 9 - you get the idea.
In this blog post, my goal is to give you a surface level understanding of some of the different types of therapies available to you. Here are some popular theories or modalities that therapists may often use in therapy.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
This theory often focuses on understanding more of the client’s thoughts or beliefs, which then leads to feelings or emotions, which then drives one's behaviors or actions.
If you can improve your thoughts, your cognitions, then down the line, the actions you take will likely be more in line with the changes you’d like to see.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
This modality applies family systems theory to the internal landscape of a person.
We are all made up of ‘parts’, and these parts - an inner critic, a productive part - are inherently good - in that they are in some way trying to serve us, to help us - even in the midst of our own anxieties around situations.
Psychodynamic (Psychoanalytic).
This tends to be a much more past-oriented way of doing therapy.
Freud, Jung and other therapy-greats were responsible for giving us some of the core language around the therapeutic experience as we know it today.
Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT)
Typically, this is an approach used with couples with a strong present-tense focus of the here and now in the room.
Feelings are central in this viewpoint, and relate with our thoughts and behaviors.
This theory for some may feel like what they hope counseling should be.
While the focus is not on ‘fixing’ the client, questions may seem more pragmatic, future-oriented and problem focused - with an aim typically of more of a short-term focus.
It is an action-oriented way to view counseling-related issues.
Humanistic (Client-centered or Rogerian)
The therapist brings a strong sense of unconditional positive regard with the client.
The client may lead the session.
There is often a strong sense of a collaborative approach to healing in therapy.
Bowenian (Family Systems)
This modality often involves looking at one’s past through the lens of their family relationships.
Genograms are often used.
There is often a strong relational component, whether a client is being seen individually or with other family members, because it is believed that past generations shape one’s present reality.
Indeed, the world of therapy is rich and varied, with a multitude of theoretical approaches and modalities aimed at helping individuals navigate their inner landscapes and find healing. While we've only scratched the surface here, it's important to acknowledge the vast array of therapeutic theories and techniques that exist, each offering its own unique perspective and approach to wellness.
In considering what draws us to therapy, it's often the promise of finding relief from emotional pain, gaining insight into ourselves, and ultimately, experiencing growth and transformation. Whether we're grappling with the aftermath of trauma, navigating relationship challenges, or simply seeking greater self-awareness and fulfillment, therapy offers a safe and supportive space to explore these issues and work towards positive change.
Regardless of the specific theoretical orientation or technique employed, the ultimate goal of therapy is to alleviate suffering and promote well-being. This might involve challenging negative thought patterns, developing coping skills to manage stress and anxiety, or processing difficult emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
So whether you're embarking on your first therapy session or continuing your therapeutic journey, remember that help is available, and healing is possible. By embracing the power of therapy to transform our lives, we can begin to connect the dots between our beliefs, emotions, and actions, and move towards a brighter, more hopeful future.