Therapy Approaches

Therapy Approaches

We recognize the uniqueness of each individual, and our clinicians are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where clients can embark on their journey towards healing and growth. We invite you to explore the diverse range of therapeutic modalities available at our clinic, each contributing to a comprehensive and personalized approach to mental health.

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

EFT is an evidence-based approach to couples therapy that focuses on the emotional bonds between partners. Developed primarily by Dr. Sue Johnson, EFT is rooted in attachment theory, which suggests that the quality of early attachments influences an individual’s emotional well-being and the dynamics of their adult relationships.

EFT has become one of the most researched and validated approaches to couples therapy. It is valued for its focus on emotions, attachment, and the creation of secure emotional bonds within relationships. Couples often find EFT helpful in navigating conflicts, deepening intimacy, and fostering a sense of safety and connection with their partners.

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

IFS therapy is a therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Richard C. Schwartz that explores the complex internal system of the mind. This model views the mind as composed of various subpersonalities or “parts,” each with its own unique qualities, emotions, and functions. The goal of IFS therapy is to help individuals understand and harmonize these internal parts to achieve greater self-awareness, healing, and personal growth.

IFS has gained recognition for its effectiveness in addressing a wide range of issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and interpersonal difficulties. It is utilized in individual therapy and has been adapted for use in couples and family therapy as well. The approach is known for its emphasis on empowerment, self-compassion, and facilitating inner healing.

Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS)

CPS is an approach to therapy and intervention, especially for individuals, particularly children and adolescents, who struggle with challenging behaviors and social-emotional difficulties. Developed by Dr. Ross W. Greene, Collaborative Problem Solving is detailed in his model called Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS).

Collaborative Problem Solving has been applied successfully in various contexts, including schools, families, and mental health settings. It is particularly well-suited for individuals with challenging behaviors who may struggle with more traditional behavioral interventions. The collaborative and empathetic nature of CPS can contribute to positive outcomes and improved relationships.

Motivational Interviewing (MI)

MI is an evidence-based, client-centered approach designed to elicit and strengthen an individual’s motivation for change. It was developed by psychologists William R. Miller and Stephen Rollnick in the early 1980s. MI is particularly effective in addressing behaviors that are resistant to change, such as substance abuse, unhealthy eating habits, and other lifestyle issues.

Motivational Interviewing is widely used in various settings, including healthcare, addiction treatment, mental health, and lifestyle coaching. It is a collaborative, goal-oriented approach that respects the individual’s autonomy and seeks to elicit and strengthen their own motivations for positive change.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a widely used and evidence-based psychotherapeutic approach that focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Developed by Aaron T. Beck and further refined by Albert Ellis, CBT is grounded in the idea that our thoughts and beliefs influence our emotions and behaviors. The goal of CBT is to identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being.

CBT is used in individual therapy, group therapy, and even in self-help formats. It has been adapted for various populations and cultural contexts. The versatility and evidence-based nature of CBT contribute to its widespread use and popularity in the field of mental health.

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

TF-CBT is a specialized form of cognitive-behavioral therapy designed to address the needs of individuals, especially children and adolescents, who have experienced trauma. Developed by Judith Cohen, Anthony Mannarino, and Esther Deblinger, TF-CBT integrates cognitive-behavioral techniques with trauma-specific interventions to help individuals cope with and heal from the effects of traumatic experiences.

TF-CBT is commonly used for children and adolescents who have experienced various forms of trauma, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, domestic violence, and traumatic grief. It has been found to be effective in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related disorders. Additionally, TF-CBT can be adapted for use with adults who have experienced trauma.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)

MBSR is a structured program that incorporates mindfulness meditation and awareness practices to help individuals manage stress, enhance well-being, and develop greater self-awareness. It was developed by Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn in the late 1970s and is based on the principles of mindfulness, which involve paying attention to the present moment without judgment.

Research has shown that MBSR can be effective in reducing stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, and it has been applied in various settings, including healthcare, education, and workplace environments. The program is often used as a complementary approach to support mental health and well-being.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT is a comprehensive and evidence-based psychotherapy developed by Dr. Marsha M. Linehan. Originally designed to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD), DBT has since been adapted and proven effective for various mental health conditions, especially those involving difficulties in emotion regulation and interpersonal functioning.

DBT has been adapted for various populations beyond those with BPD, including individuals with substance use disorders, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety disorders. The skills taught in DBT are practical and can be applied to improve emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, and overall well-being.

The Nurtured Heart Approach (NHA)

NHA is a therapeutic and educational approach developed by Howard Glasser and Melissa Block. It is designed to help children, particularly those with challenging behaviors, develop inner wealth and thrive by fostering a positive and empowering environment. The Nurtured Heart Approach is widely used in schools, homes, and therapeutic settings.

The Nurtured Heart Approach is designed to be empowering for both children and adults, fostering a positive and nurturing environment that encourages personal growth and success. It has been widely embraced in schools and therapeutic settings for its focus on building positive relationships and creating a foundation for success.

Expressive Art Therapy (EAT)

EAT is a therapeutic approach that integrates the use of creative arts, such as visual arts, music, dance, drama, and writing, to promote emotional expression, self-discovery, and psychological healing. It is a form of psychotherapy that recognizes the potential of the arts as a powerful means of communication and self-exploration.

Expressive Art Therapy is employed in various therapeutic settings, including mental health treatment, trauma recovery, grief counseling, and personal growth. It aligns with a person-centered and strengths-based approach, valuing each individual’s unique journey of self-expression and healing.

We currently have clinicians who provide the following types of EAT:

Art Therapy
Dance Therapy (Hakomi)
Sandtray
Narrative
Play Therapy

Somatice Internal Family Systems

“Somatic IFS” refers to the integration of Somatic Experiencing (SE) principles with Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Both Somatic Experiencing and Internal Family Systems are therapeutic approaches that focus on healing and integrating different aspects of an individual’s experiences, but they have distinct origins and techniques. The integration of these approaches, often referred to as Somatic IFS, combines elements of both to enhance the therapeutic process.

Somatic IFS is applied by therapists trained in both Internal Family Systems and Somatic Experiencing. It provides individuals with a holistic framework for exploring and healing the various dimensions of their internal experiences, fostering greater self-awareness and integration. The integrated approach is particularly useful for individuals dealing with trauma or issues that involve disruptions in the mind-body connection.

Psychodynamic

Psychodynamic therapy is a form of depth psychology that explores the unconscious mind and its influence on an individual’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It is rooted in the psychoanalytic tradition and was developed by Sigmund Freud, along with subsequent theorists and practitioners. Psychodynamic therapy aims to uncover and understand unconscious processes, unresolved conflicts, and early-life experiences that may be impacting a person’s current life.

Psychodynamic therapy has evolved over time, and contemporary psychodynamic approaches may integrate techniques from other therapeutic modalities. It is employed in various settings, including individual therapy, group therapy, and even in certain forms of brief or time-limited therapy. Psychodynamic principles are also incorporated into other therapeutic approaches, contributing to the broader field of psychotherapy.

Gestalt Therapy

Gestalt therapy is a psychotherapeutic approach that emphasizes the importance of the present moment, awareness, and the integration of the mind and body. It was developed by Fritz Perls, Laura Perls, and Paul Goodman in the 1940s and 1950s. The term “Gestalt” comes from the German word meaning “whole” or “pattern.”

Gestalt therapy is applied to a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and personal growth. It is an experiential and process-oriented approach, valuing the client’s subjective experience and promoting self-awareness and personal responsibility. The goal is to help individuals live more fully in the present and make choices that align with their authentic selves.

Humanistic Therapy

Humanistic therapy is an approach to psychotherapy that emphasizes the importance of the individual’s subjective experience, personal growth, and self-actualization. It emerged in the mid-20th century as a reaction to the more deterministic and behavior-focused approaches of the time. Humanistic therapy is often associated with the works of psychologists such as Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow.

Humanistic therapy is used to address a wide range of concerns, including issues related to self-esteem, identity, personal development, relationships, and existential questions. It is considered particularly beneficial for individuals seeking personal growth, increased self-awareness, and a greater sense of fulfillment in life.

Rogerian Therapy

Rogerian therapy, also known as person-centered therapy or client-centered therapy, is an influential form of humanistic psychotherapy developed by the psychologist Carl Rogers. It is based on the belief that individuals have the inherent capacity for personal growth and self-actualization, and the therapeutic process is centered around creating a supportive and empathetic environment to facilitate this natural potential.

Rogerian therapy is widely used in various therapeutic settings and has influenced the field of psychotherapy significantly. It has applications in individual counseling, couples therapy, group therapy, and even crisis intervention. The client-centered and non-directive nature of the approach allows it to be adaptable to diverse client needs and issues.

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

SFBT is a goal-oriented and strengths-based approach to psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals identify and work toward solutions to their problems, rather than dwelling extensively on the problems themselves. Developed by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg in the 1980s, SFBT is known for its brief and pragmatic nature, often producing positive results in a relatively short period.

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy is used in a variety of settings, including mental health counseling, family therapy, school counseling, and organizational consulting. It has proven to be effective in addressing a range of issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and behavioral challenges. The focus on solutions and the client’s strengths makes it particularly appealing for individuals seeking practical and efficient interventions.

Exposure Therapy

Exposure therapy is a therapeutic approach used to treat anxiety disorders, phobias, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other conditions characterized by intense and irrational fears. The primary goal of exposure therapy is to help individuals confront and overcome their fears by gradually and systematically exposing them to the feared stimuli or situations in a safe and controlled environment.

Exposure therapy is based on the principles of classical conditioning and aims to promote habituation, where the anxiety response decreases over time as individuals repeatedly confront and tolerate their fears. It is considered a highly effective and evidence-based approach for various anxiety-related disorders.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR therapy is a psychotherapeutic approach designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories and experiences. Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR has gained widespread recognition for its effectiveness in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions.

EMDR has been extensively researched and is recognized as an effective treatment for trauma-related conditions. It is used not only for PTSD but also for various anxiety disorders, phobias, and other psychological difficulties stemming from traumatic experiences. The therapy is adaptable to individual needs and can be integrated into a broader treatment plan.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT is a form of psychotherapy that combines elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with mindfulness strategies. ACT aims to help individuals develop psychological flexibility, which involves being open, adaptive, and present in the moment while pursuing values-based goals. The approach was developed by Steven C. Hayes and his colleagues in the late 20th century.

ACT has been applied to a wide range of psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, stress, and substance use. It is used in individual therapy, group therapy, and even in self-help formats. The focus on values and committed action makes ACT particularly well-suited for helping individuals build a rich and meaningful life.

Skills Training

Skills training, in the context of mental health and therapeutic interventions, typically refers to the process of teaching individuals specific skills that can help them cope with and navigate various life challenges. These skills can be practical, emotional, or cognitive in nature and are often targeted to improve overall well-being and functioning. Skills training is commonly employed in various therapeutic approaches and settings, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based modalities. Here are some common types of skills training:

Skills training is often an integral part of therapeutic interventions and can be tailored to the specific needs and goals of the individual. Whether delivered in individual therapy, group settings, or through self-help resources, acquiring and practicing these skills can contribute to improved mental health and overall life satisfaction.

Psychoeducation

Psychoeducation refers to the process of providing education and information about mental health, psychological conditions, and related topics to individuals, families, or communities. The goal of psychoeducation is to increase awareness, understanding, and knowledge about mental health issues, promote mental well-being, and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their mental health. Psychoeducation can be delivered in various settings, including clinical settings, schools, workplaces, and community organizations.

Psychoeducation can be delivered through various formats, including individual counseling sessions, group workshops, educational materials, online resources, and community outreach programs. It plays a crucial role in promoting mental health literacy, reducing stigma, and fostering a more informed and supportive society.

Parenting Education

Parenting education refers to the process of providing information, support, and resources to parents to enhance their knowledge, skills, and confidence in raising and nurturing their children. Parenting education programs are designed to address various aspects of child development, behavior management, communication, and positive parenting techniques. These programs aim to empower parents, strengthen parent-child relationships, and promote the well-being of both parents and children.

Parenting education programs can be delivered through various formats, including workshops, seminars, support groups, online resources, and community-based initiatives. These programs are often offered by schools, community organizations, healthcare providers, and parenting centers. By enhancing parenting knowledge and skills, these programs contribute to creating nurturing and supportive family environments.

Hakomi

Hakomi is a somatic psychotherapy method that integrates principles from Eastern philosophies, mindfulness, and body-centered techniques to facilitate personal growth, healing, and self-discovery. Developed by Ron Kurtz in the 1970s, Hakomi is grounded in the idea that the body holds valuable information about an individual’s emotional and psychological experiences.

Hakomi is used in individual and group therapy settings and is particularly effective for addressing issues related to trauma, self-esteem, relationship dynamics, and personal development. Therapists trained in Hakomi utilize a combination of verbal and experiential techniques to support clients in accessing and integrating unconscious material, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and their patterns of behavior.

Alcohol and Drug Abuse Therapy

Alcohol and drug abuse therapy, provided by a provider certified in the approach, often referred to as substance abuse or addiction therapy, is a specialized form of counseling aimed at helping individuals overcome issues related to the misuse of alcohol or drugs. It encompasses a range of therapeutic approaches designed to address the complex nature of substance use disorders and support individuals in achieving and maintaining recovery.

Effective substance abuse therapy is typically tailored to the individual’s specific needs and may involve a combination of these approaches. The therapeutic process is collaborative, focusing on empowering individuals to make positive changes in their lives and supporting their journey toward lasting recovery.