Before starting psychological counseling, you need to identify the type of therapy that is right for you. Although the scenario of conversation is practically the same in all forms of psychotherapy, different aspects determine the path of treatment.
In addition, as a patient, you need to identify with the professional and the method used. Otherwise, you will not be able to open or continue the treatment correctly.
This lack of connection can even take people away from therapy after a first experience. Therefore, the ideal is to know each type of psychotherapy before looking for a professional.
What is the best type of therapy for me?
Before starting therapy definitively, Vittude recommends making an initial appointment to talk to the professional and get to know his work . In this first contact, you can tell what bothers you and set goals. Thus, you will have an idea if the professional can help you with your problem.
You may need to do a few sessions to see if you are really comfortable during therapy. It is essential that you feel relaxed to talk openly, especially on more personal matters.
There are cases in which the professional himself refers the patient to the type of therapy that he thinks is best for him.
Psychoanalysis
First, let’s start with Freud.
The Freudian method is focused on the analysis of the unconscious . Thus, the sessions with the psychoanalyst are long and profound. The patient lies on a couch while the professional takes notes of his words. Do not be surprised if the psychoanalyst simply lets you talk about different subjects, with no connection between them.
From the patient’s ramblings, the psychoanalyst makes interpretations. When a complicated subject comes up, it helps you to overcome your inhibitions. It is a slow way to digest negative events or feelings.
This type of psychotherapy is usually intense , as it explores the patient’s unconscious. The sessions aim to get to the root of the problems and discover their essence. Because of this, treatment can last for years. There is no limit.
Psychoanalysis is recommended for people who seek self-knowledge . It is also good for working with repressed memories from trauma.
Jungian therapy
Professionals who follow Jung’s psychotherapy use artistic methods to perform the analysis. However, there is a purpose behind them.
The patient performs many dynamics related to writing and drawing. The symbols present in these are analyzed to identify personality traits and even beliefs. Jung had some ideas similar to Freud’s, so the unconscious is an important part of this type of therapy.
The dreams are also a source of analysis. The professional asks some questions regarding patients’ dreams, especially if they are commonplace.
It is also recommended for those who are looking for more self-knowledge and feel the need for an interaction between professional and patient.
Cognitive behavioral therapy
One of the many ramifications of behavioral therapy, CBT is one of the most common. It refers to the way we interpret life’s situations. What really affects us is not the event itself, but the way we react to it.
The psychologist analyzes how the patient feels and thinks in relation to everyday situations. If you are going through a difficult period at work, the factors that make the routine arduous are examined. He may be feeding “automatic thoughts” of a negative character, such as “I’m not good enough” or “I’m not recognized.”
In sessions, the professional promotes the analysis and interpretation of life experiences . In this way, the patient has more control over his own actions, as he understands that he must modify his perspective.
It is common to answer several questions similar to those of personality tests . Consequently, self-knowledge also happens , however, more slowly.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is recommended for anyone who wants to understand and urgently solve a problem.
Behaviorist Therapy
In behavioral therapy , human behavior is the main factor. Nothing we do is by chance, as we are constantly reacting to the expectations of the environments. Conduct at work is different from conduct at home. The medium is the major influencer of our attitudes.
The psychologist deals with patients’ fears and complaints more directly. The objective is to correct behavior considered unfavorable. The patient receives several exercises to face his limitations.
Obviously, this process is done with great care so as not to rush changes and frighten the patient. In some cases, the professional may even accompany you in a situation in which you are afraid.
If you want to change behaviors or overcome insecurities, this type of therapy is the most suitable.
Humanism
The humanism is popularly known as the “selfish” approach. That is, the main focus is self-acceptance. The patient’s personality, beliefs, defects and qualities are the most important factors during treatment. They are worked on so that the patient develops self-esteem.
Self-knowledge is also essential because it acts as a bridge to acceptance. As the patient becomes acquainted, he begins to accept characteristics that he thought were negative . Only in this way is it able to carry out the necessary change movements to have the desired life.
The psychologist then performs several exercises to promote reflections on the patient’s personality. He is encouraged to value his abilities above all.
For example, people with low self-esteem often take the blame for any failed social interaction. However, both parties have their share of responsibility. The psychologist helps the patient to realize that he should not focus only on the reactions of others. After all, it is impossible to please everyone.
This type of therapy is recommended for people who wish to know themselves or resolve an emotional problem within themselves, such as a lack of self – confidence .
Gestalt Therapy
The gestalt approach , or gestalt, is based on the idea that it is necessary to understand the totality to understand the parts. The goal is to make the patient see new ways to face difficult situations for him.
Human perception is formed by a view of the object itself (event, person, feeling) and the specific values of each one. Thus, the interpretation of a situation depends on the ideals and beliefs cultivated by the patient.
In each session, the psychologist looks for the known and unknown components of the patient’s personality. The harmonic interaction of these factors allows access to the patient’s full potential. From then on, he can focus on his personal development.
It is a therapy for those who seek to know themselves more deeply, in addition to enhancing skills and personality traits.
Neuropsychology
Neuropsychology studies the relationship between the brain and behavior. The neuropsychologist looks for possible brain injuries in the patient through a neuropsychological assessment. This is typically done after accidents that have resulted in disruption to the cognitive areas.
Memory, language, concentration, mood and visual perception are some of the functions analyzed during the assessment.
Sometimes, even with brain damage, the patient appears to be well. But, thanks to the evaluation, it is soon noticed that some functions have been compromised.
The earlier this diagnosis is made, the greater the chances of recovering functional capabilities. People who have suffered a stroke, have problems with memory and reasoning, have degenerative illnesses , and have severe mental disorders, such as bipolarity or profound depression , should seek a neuropsychological.
Children with suspected autism spectrum disorder , attention deficit hyperactivity disorder , dyslexia and mental disorders may also consult with this professional.
Transpersonal Therapy
Transpersonal therapy consists of an approach that uses methods such as meditation , hypnosis and relaxation. These practices focus on the possibility of finding something bigger, as if the patient transcends his current reality.
This type of therapy recognizes the importance of the spiritual. The human being is defined as an integral being. The body is not the only object of interest, but also the spirit and the soul. In this context, treatment is carried out taking into account all dimensions of the patient.
By combining practices in addition to traditional psychology, it can be considered somewhat esoteric. However, transpersonal psychology encompasses principles from several aspects, such as Jungian, for example. It is recommended for people with an affinity for more holistic themes.
And now, what kind of therapy to choose?
You already know some approaches, so you are ready to decide which type of therapy is best for you. Carefully reflect on the results you want to find in therapy. Do you have the desire to get to know yourself better or are you looking for treatment for a mental disorder? Identifying goals helps to make the choice.
If you don’t have a clear idea of what you’re looking for, that’s fine too. Choose the approach you felt the most affinity with and assess how you feel during the first session.
