Psychotherapy
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Also called talk therapy, psychotherapy refers to therapy implemented by psychology professionals to treat mental health conditions and improve relationships. Sessions rely on tools such as emotion identification, coping skills exploration and cognitive restructuring, to treat mental health concerns. It may be paired with prescription medications or utilized on its own to help individuals manage symptoms and find solutions.
How psychotherapists can help with bipolar disorder, depression, and other mental health conditions
Mental health services may be used to address mental health disorders (what we once called mental illness), or simply to learn skills to better navigate life stress. Some mental disorders that may be treated by a licensed mental health professional include: eating disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, personality disorders (such as borderline personality disorder), and other mental health conditions.
There are many types of therapy practiced by psychologists, family therapists, social workers, and other mental health professionals. Some of the most common are forms of behavioral therapy such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. A treatment plan for some disorders may include collaboration between health professionals such as medical doctors, mental health professionals like psychiatric nurses, and family members.
Some health insurance companies will cover mental health care like psychotherapy, while others do not. Some providers will offer sliding scale payment plans or reduced-priced community clinics to offer support to those who have difficulty affording care. The mental health services administration website can offer resources. Online therapy can also be an affordable option for many.
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Medically Reviewed by Melissa Guarnaccia, LCSW
Psychotherapy is a type of treatment designed to help people understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Psychotherapy can often improve symptoms of mental health conditions and help people improve their relationships. Therapy can be conducted individually or in groups, and there are numerous therapeutic approaches that can be used, depending on a person’s symptoms. Below are some of the main types of psychotherapy used to treat mental health concerns.
Types of psychotherapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy, group therapy, and more
Interpersonal therapy
Many people live with mood disorders like depression that can affect their ability to make and maintain relationships. These individuals might face social isolation, which can worsen pre-existing symptoms. Through interpersonal psychotherapy, a therapist may help a person identify negative patterns in their social interactions and then learn strategies to improve their interactions.
Exposure therapy for increased resilience and mental health phobias
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for depression, bipolar disorder, and more
This type of therapy may be effective for helping people experiencing addiction, low self-esteem, and a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is typically used to help people who are experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The process usually involves the client moving their eyes in a specific way while recalling traumatic memories with the guidance of a therapist. The therapist typically provides bilateral stimulation of the brain by having the client follow their finger with their eyes. This process may help the client change thoughts and behaviors that stem from a traumatic memory. It may also help the client’s brain to heal from the mental injury caused by a traumatic event.
Group psychotherapy
While most therapy is usually done on a one-on-one basis, group therapy can also be effective for a variety of mental health challenges. Group therapy can have many advantages. For example, being with people who face similar challenges may help you realize that you aren't alone. Group therapy may also help you discover solutions you hadn’t thought of before, in addition to allowing you to help others on their mental health journey.
How online therapy can help support your mental health
Takeaway
Psychotherapy can take many forms, depending on the needs of the client. One of the most common approaches is cognitive-behavioral therapy, which typically aims to help people identify inaccurate or negative thoughts and replace them with more positive thoughts. If you’re experiencing mental health challenges, you don’t have to face them alone. With BetterHelp, you can be matched with a licensed therapist who has experience addressing your specific areas of concern. Take the first step toward getting support through psychotherapy and reach out to BetterHelp today.