Types of Therapy

Up to this point in our depression series we have discussed several conditions that have a depressed mood as a symptom of the condition; this includes premenstrual syndrome (PMS), post-partum blues and depression, normal and prolonged grief, major depression disorder, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Depending on the condition and severity, medication may be needed to help control symptoms. On the other hand, therapy tends to be beneficial in all these conditions. A therapist can use many types of therapy methods. It can be helpful to know which therapy method is being used in your case or what methods tend to work best for you. In this way, you can come to your session engaged and empowered.

As discussed previously, cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most common and effective methods of therapy. With CBT, therapists help others identify and correct distorted and poorly adaptive beliefs. CBT uses education, relaxation techniques, coping skills training and stress management to help others reach concrete goal in therapy. Those who do well with CBT are generally highly motivated and find value in problem solving, developing skills of self-observation and correction. (1)

Other forms of therapy include psychodynamic therapy and motivational interviewing. With psychodynamic therapy, there is a premise that childhood experiences, unresolved conflicts and previous relationships shape behaviors. As a result, this type of therapy focuses of developing personal insight into choices, actions and behaviors. Psychodynamic therapy seeks uncover and correct unconscious patterns in behaviors that lead to failed relationships. Motivational interviewing involves looking at someone readiness for change. This type of therapy is gaining popularity because if helps others identify maladaptive behaviors, uncover resistance to change and makes corrections in behaviors that lead to meaningful changes in one’s mental and physical health. Not only can motivational interviewing be used for mental health disorders, but also for substance use disorders, weight loss and adherence to complex medical treatment for heart failure. (1)

A therapist with a “heart of God” can serve as your partner in helping uncover poor decision and behaviors while waling with you towards a path of wisdom and fulfilling relationships. Above all, remember you have to read your bible! 2 Timothy 3:16 reminds us that “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.” God’s word is a light to our feet and teaches us wisdom in all situations. Reading it is essential to developing insight and correcting behaviors that may have led you off course and destroyed relationships. Starting a devotional life is one of the best habits you can develop to allow Jesus to serve as your ultimate counselor and therapist daily. Trust me! It is more beneficial than you realize and you certainly will not regret it.

REFERENCES
1.Overview of psychotherapies. In: UpToDate, Lebow and A Skodol, TL Schwenk (Eds) UpToDate, Waltham, MA (Assessed December 24, 2022)