DEMYSTIFYING PSYCHOTHERAPY
Whether you've participated in psychotherapy in the past or this is your first time considering working with a licensed professional, we'd like to share some basic information about psychotherapy and some tips and strategies for getting the most from your sessions.
"THEORETICAL ORIENTATION"
Similar to how physical medicine doctors have specialities and frameworks through which they approach medicine, therapists often have specialties and - what we call "theoretical orientations" - which often varies from therapist to therapist. You might be wondering what is a theoretical orientation and how does it influence treatment:
A theoretical orientation refers to a therapist's framework or lens through which they understand and address human behavior, thoughts, and emotions. This orientation is often rooted in specific theories or models, such as behaviorism, cognitive psychology, psychodynamic theory, humanistic psychology, or systemic approaches, among others. Each orientation provides distinct concepts, methods, and therapeutic techniques, guiding practitioners in their assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of clients, and influencing how they interpret human experiences and relationships. ​
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EVIDENCE-BASED PSYCHOTHERAPY
Our practice focuses exclusively on delivering evidence-based psychotherapy. Evidence-based psychotherapy refers to therapeutic practices that are grounded in scientific research and clinical evidence demonstrating their effectiveness. This approach emphasizes the use of treatment protocols that have been validated through rigorous studies, ensuring that the interventions are not only theoretically sound but also practically beneficial for patients. Common examples include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), which are supported by extensive research showing their efficacy in treating various mental health conditions. The goal is the best possible care by integrating clinical expertise with evidence from research.
OUR APPROACHES TO PSYCHOTHERAPY
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, time-limited psychotherapy that aims to address dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and thoughts through a goal-oriented approach. It is based on the premise that negative thought patterns contribute to psychological distress and that altering these thoughts can lead to improved emotional well-being and behavior change. CBT involves identifying and challenging distorted thinking, developing coping strategies, and engaging in behavioral experiments, making it effective for a range of conditions such as depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders.
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​Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) is a brief, goal-oriented approach that emphasizes building solutions rather than analyzing problems. It focuses on the client's strengths and resources, encouraging them to envision their desired future and identify small, achievable steps toward that future. Instead of delving into past issues or symptoms, SFT aims to foster a collaborative relationship between therapist and client, utilizing techniques like scaling questions and miracles questions to facilitate change and empower clients to create their own solutions.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THERAPY
You can expect a supportive and confidential environment where you can discuss your thoughts, feelings, and challenges openly. Initially, your therapist may conduct an assessment to understand your concerns and set treatment goals. Sessions typically involve dialogue, reflection, and exploration of your emotions and behaviors, aimed at fostering insight and coping strategies. Depending on the therapeutic approach used, techniques may vary, such as cognitive-behavioral strategies, psychodynamic exploration, or mindfulness practices. It's also common to review progress regularly and adjust goals as needed, promoting a collaborative and dynamic therapeutic relationship. Overall, the process is designed to help you gain insights, develop skills, and improve your mental well-being over time.
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