So, you’ve decided to start therapy, but where do you begin? Starting the process of therapy can feel daunting at first, especially with so many options out there. On top of this, most people who seek out therapy aren’t feeling their best. Some disorders require specific types of treatment; some people respond better to certain therapies; sometimes you’ll just ‘gel’ better with a certain therapist. What suits you and your current needs may differ entirely from the person next to you. We’re all individuals after all… This leads many of us to the question: what type of therapy do I need?
With so many treatment options out there, choosing a type of therapy can feel overwhelming. Here, we’ll guide you through the process of finding the right therapy for you and explain the various types available.
Types of psychological therapy and how they can help
Getting a sense of the various types of psychological therapies can empower you to make an informed decision about your personalised mental health care. Even though some therapies are better suited for certain situations, there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach. For example, one person struggling with anxiety may respond well to Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), while another may prefer a Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) approach.
Each type of psychological therapy offers unique approaches and benefits, designed to address different aspects of mental well-being. We specialise in evidence-based therapies that bring about real, lasting change. Our clinicians are trained in multiple modalities, ensuring your therapy can evolve with you and meet your changing needs.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps you understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours influence each other. In this structured, goal-oriented approach, you and your therapist work together to change unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours. Focusing on current difficulties, CBT is effective for anxiety, depression, OCD, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders, as well as sleep issues, anger management, and unexplained physical symptoms. It also tends to be shorter term than therapies like Schema Therapy.
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
DBT is a form of CBT designed for people with intense emotions. It combines cognitive-behavioural techniques with mindfulness practices and is particularly effective for borderline personality disorder, self-harm, and chronic suicidal ideation. DBT emphasises balancing acceptance and change, helping you build healthier relationships and emotional regulation skills. DBT can involve a combination of individual sessions with a therapist and group skills sessions.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT encourages you to accept your thoughts and feelings rather than fighting them. It helps you live a values-based life and is effective for depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. ACT can help you develop psychological flexibility, allowing you to pursue meaningful activities despite challenging emotions.
Schema Therapy
Schema Therapy integrates elements of CBT, psychoanalysis, and attachment theory. It’s a longer-term therapeutic approach and is particularly beneficial if you notice repeating patterns in your life. These deep-rooted patterns or themes are called ‘Schemas’, which tend to influence your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. For example, if you tend to date a similar type of person, repeatedly encounter the same work conflicts, or always feel stuck in certain life situations, Schema Therapy can help identify why this is and work towards changing it. This therapy is useful for personality disorders and chronic mental health issues, providing a framework to address long-standing emotional and relational problems.
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is a unique therapy primarily used for trauma and PTSD. It involves processing traumatic memories through guided eye movements, helping to reduce the emotional impact of these memories. EMDR allows you to reprocess traumatic experiences in a safe environment, leading to decreased distress and improved emotional well-being.
Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
CFT aims to help individuals develop self-compassion and reduce self-criticism – which can be the basis for other mental health difficulties such as anxiety and depression. It combines elements of CBT with evolutionary, social, and developmental psychology. CFT is beneficial for issues such as depression, anxiety, and shame. By fostering a kind and understanding attitude towards yourself, CFT helps you build resilience and improve your mental health.
How to choose the right therapy
Choosing the right therapy involves considering several factors, including the nature of your issues, your personal preferences, and the qualifications of the therapist. There is a lot of information out there, even conducting a simple Google search can be an information overload! Despite this, it’s useful to arm yourself with as much knowledge as possible so you can make the best decision moving forward. Remember, therapy is personal to you and your needs, so what has worked for your friends and family may not be the best fit for you. Here are some steps to help guide you in your research:
- Identify Your Needs: Take some time to understand the issues you want to address in therapy. Are you dealing with anxiety? Is your relationship feeling hard to navigate? Recognising your needs is the first step towards finding the most suitable therapy for you.
- Research Different Therapies: Explore the various types of therapies available and how they can specifically address your concerns. Understanding the approach and techniques of each therapy can help you make an informed decision about what may work best for you.
- Consult a Professional: Reach out to a qualified therapist or clinic who can provide expert guidance. Speaking with a professional allows you to discuss your needs and preferences openly, helping them match you to the right type of therapy based on your individual situation.
Even after conducting your research, seeking a professional opinion can provide valuable insights into what kind of therapy would be most beneficial for you. It can also be a relief to have some guidance when you’re struggling with your feelings. We understand the importance of finding the right fit. That’s why we offer an initial assessment to match you with the right therapist and type of therapy, taking the guesswork out of the process and ensuring you receive the support you need to thrive.
Types of therapy for depression
Dealing with depression can be incredibly challenging. When even the smallest daily tasks feel like a struggle, taking the first step to seek therapy can feel overwhelming for some people. However, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone in this journey. Depression is a common mental health issue, and there are many therapies available that can offer support and relief including CBT, Schema, MBCT, CAT, ACT, CFT (amongst others.) By understanding the different types of therapy tailored for depression, you can take a step towards finding the most effective treatment for your unique needs. At our clinic, we will triage your needs and match you with the type of therapy best suited to help your specific requirements.
The importance of evidence-based therapy
Evidence-based therapy means that the approaches we use are supported by scientific research and have been proven effective in treating various mental health issues. We only offer cutting-edge, evidence-based therapies that bring about real, lasting change. This commitment to evidence-based practice ensures that you receive the highest quality care tailored to your specific needs.
How therapy can evolve with you
Our clinicians are trained in multiple modalities, this means that your therapy can evolve with you as your needs change. Whether you start with CBT and later find that EMDR or Schema Therapy is more appropriate, our therapists can seamlessly integrate different approaches to provide comprehensive care. This flexibility allows for a more personalised and effective therapy experience.
The importance of choosing the right therapy
Choosing the right kind of therapy can be a transformative experience. It provides a framework for understanding yourself and your behaviours and paves the way for getting the appropriate support, addressing your issues effectively and leading a fulfilling and successful life.
Seeking an assessment to determine the most suitable therapy for you or your loved one is an important first step towards uncovering your unique set of strengths and challenges. This understanding is the foundation for accessing the right support and ultimately, thriving in your personal journey toward well-being.
Book an initial assessment and we’ll match you
If you feel that you are struggling with your mental health, now is the time to take action. We recommend scheduling an assessment with one of our therapists as soon as possible. At our clinic, we will triage your needs and match you with the therapist best suited to help you. Through therapy, you will learn to better understand and manage your emotions, empowering you to feel more in control of your life. Taking this step can help you reclaim a sense of well-being and move forward with greater confidence and resilience.
