Therapy for a happier you

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment that centers around the idea that the way we think leads to our feelings and behaviors, therefore if we change our thinking, we change how we feel. and act. In CBT, a person learns to recognize distortions, or irrational thoughts and develops strategies and coping skills to change negative thoughts and thinking patterns.

Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is based on the idea that some people are more prone to experiencing intense emotions and have difficulty regulating these emotions. Originally developed specifically for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder, DBT is an empirically supported treatment for a variety of presenting problems.

The goal of DBT is to help individuals learn new skills to manage their emotions, build distress tolerance, decrease unwanted behaviors, improve their relationships, and build a life they’re proud to live.

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a form of therapy that helps individuals understand and integrate various parts of themselves. IFS aims to help individuals connect with their “Self,” which is considered the core, undamaged part of the person. IFS explores the idea that even unwanted or maladaptive behaviors are meant to serve a positive purpose in the individual’s life.

Trauma-informed therapy is an approach that recognizes the widespread impact of trauma on an individual’s mental health and well-being. The goal of trauma-informed therapy is to facilitate healing and recovery for individuals who have experienced trauma. It aims to address the psychological, emotional, and physical effects of trauma in a safe and supportive environment.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals develop psychological flexibility and resilience. It’s based on the idea that suffering is a normal part of the human experience and that trying to avoid or control painful emotions and experiences often leads to greater distress. ACT often uses visuals and metaphors in its interventions.

ACT aims to help individuals lead richer, more fulfilling lives by developing greater psychological flexibility and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.

Play therapy uses play to help children communicate and express themselves. It can also be used with adults. It allows individuals to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a safe and non-threatening way. The goals are to help children express themselves, develop problem-solving skills, improve social skills, and learn to regulate their emotions.

Movement therapy, also known as dance/movement therapy, uses movement and dance to promote emotional, cognitive, physical, and social integration.

Movement therapy aims to enhance self-awareness, self-esteem, and body image while also alleviating stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also help individuals explore and express difficult emotions, such as anger or grief, in a safe and supportive environment.

Solution-focused therapy (SFT) is an approach that focuses on setting goals and looking towards the future. It emphasizes finding solutions instead of focusing on problems.“ SFT is a positive, empowering approach to therapy that can help individuals make meaningful changes in their lives by focusing on their strengths and resources. 

Motivational interviewing (MI) is a type of counseling that helps people who are unsure how to – or whether they should – make changes to their behavior. MI empowers them to make positive changes by exploring their own motivations, values, and capacity for change. It is often used in the context of health behavior change, such as quitting smoking, losing weight, or managing chronic illnesses.

Mindfulness is a mental state characterized by present-moment awareness and non-judgmental acceptance of one’s thoughts, feelings, sensations, and surroundings. It can be powerful in addressing ongoing presentations of trauma in an individual’s life or increasing awareness of positive events for those stuck in negative thinking patterns. It involves paying attention to the present moment with openness, curiosity, and compassion. Mindfulness practices can include meditation, yoga, tai chi, or simply paying attention to everyday activities with greater awareness.

A form of psychotherapy that views people as the experts of their own lives. Narrative therapy helps people view their problems as separate from themselves. This approach empowers individuals with the idea that they can change their relationship with the problem and rewrite their life story. A therapist collaborates with the individual to explore alternative narratives that can lead to growth and positive change.

Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is an approach used to treat OCD. In ERP, an individual is gradually exposed to situations that provoke obsessions or compulsions in a safe environment. The goal is to develop coping skills and prevent an obsession or compulsion from taking over.

Your therapist will use your first visit to engage in thoughtful discussion with you to gather important information about your background, symptoms, experiences, ambitions, and more. They will ask probing questions and listen intently as you explain what has brought you to seek help.

At the end of your first session, your therapist will discuss how frequently they would like to meet with you, what they would like to accomplish, and begin the process to set some goals for your treatment.

Your therapist will work with you to determine what type or types of therapy will be most beneficial to you.

Therapy can benefit many people in various ways. It provides a supportive environment to explore thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It can help you develop coping strategies, improve communication skills, and gain a better understanding of yourself. If you’re willing to engage in the process, therapy will likely benefit you.

Whether you’re seeking therapy online or in-person, each session lasts around fifty-five minutes.

Your time in therapy depends on lots of different factors. The severity of your condition(s), your motivation and effort, the relationship between yourself and your therapist – and especially your goals – are all pieces of the puzzle.

Your therapist will work with you to set expectations and track your progress towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Therapy is often covered by insurance providers. Aster Mental Health accepts most insurance plans. You can learn more about the providers and plans we accept here.