A psychotherapy theory is a roadmap used by psychologists to guide them through the process of understanding the problems their clients have and help in solutions development. These approaches are categorized into five broad categories:
The first is Psychodynamic and psychoanalysis therapies. This focuses on altering extreme behaviours, thoughts, and feelings by finding their unconscious meanings and motivations. This type of approach is described by a close working relationship between the therapist and client (Strisik et al., n.d.). Clients get to learn about themselves by inquiring into their interactions in the relationship.
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Second approach is behavior therapy. This focuses on learning how both normal and abnormal behaviors develop. The therapist looks at thinking and behavior patterns and how these patterns are built and maintained by the client within his or her environment (Strisik et al., n.d.). Once the signs and behavior are comprehended, the therapist and client devise alteration in patterns together, and continue observing them until the goals are achieved.
Third approach is humanistic therapy. This approach tries to recognize the self-healing capacities that the client possesses. It is divided into three types, client-centered therapy which is of the idea that therapist does not have authority over client inner experiences. Gestalt therapy emphasizes on client accepting his own responsibilities (Strisik et al., n.d.). On the other hand, existential therapy mainly emphasizes free will and self-determination.
Cognitive therapy is the fourth approach. The approach dwells on the thoughts that an individual has rather than the actions. Therapists using this approach consider that impaired thinking leads to impaired conduct. By altering their thoughts, individuals have the ability to change their actions and feelings. The fifth approach is transpersonal therapy. This type of therapy includes spiritual dimension rather than therapy content. This therapy thus includes repair and individuation (Strisik et al., n.d.).
Reference
Strisik, P. et al. (n.d). Types of Psychotherapy (Approaches). Strisik.com . Retrieved 5 May 2017 from http://www.strisik.com/therapy/approaches.htm
