The basics:
What is a psychodynamic approach?
The psychodynamic approach in therapy focuses on understanding how unconscious thoughts, feelings, and past experiences—especially from childhood—affect current behavior and relationships. By exploring these deeper emotions and patterns, clients can gain insight into their issues and develop healthier ways of coping. It’s like digging beneath the surface to discover the root of problems, helping clients heal and grow.
What is DBT?
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of therapy that helps people manage intense emotions and improve their relationships. It teaches skills in four main areas: mindfulness (staying present in the moment), distress tolerance (handling difficult situations without making them worse), emotion regulation (understanding and controlling emotions), and interpersonal effectiveness (communicating better with others). DBT is especially helpful for people who struggle with overwhelming feelings and want to find balance in their lives.
What is a CBT?
The Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach focuses on helping people change negative thought patterns and behaviors that are causing them problems. In CBT, clients learn to identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts and replace them with more realistic and positive ones. This approach is practical and focused on solving current issues, giving clients tools to manage stress, anxiety, and other challenges in everyday life.
What are mindfulness practices?
Mindfulness practices involve paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It means focusing on what's happening right now—your thoughts, feelings, body sensations, and surroundings. Common mindfulness practices include deep breathing, meditation, and noticing things around you with curiosity and without reacting. These practices help reduce stress and make you feel more grounded and calm.