Table of Contents

• Psychodynamic Therapy

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• Relational Therapy

• Somatic Therapy

• Psychoeducation

• Integrative Approach

• Conclusion

Finding the right therapist or type of therapy can often feel overwhelming and confusing. With so many different approaches and psychological terminology, it can be difficult to know where to begin or which therapy will work best for you. To help you make sense of it all, I've broken down the most common psychology perspectives: Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Relational Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Humanistic Existentialism, Psychoeducation, and the Integrative Approach. Understanding these terms will provide clarity and help you make a more informed decision about which therapy might work best for your needs. 

Psychodynamic Therapy 

What is it? Psychodynamic therapy is based on the idea that our past experiences (particularly early childhood) shape our current behavior, emotions, and relationships. This approach focuses on uncovering unconscious patterns that may be affecting a person’s current mental and emotional state. The therapist helps the individual become aware of these hidden influences and explore unresolved conflicts, leading to a better understanding of oneself and one's relationships. 

Why it works: Psychodynamic therapy is effective because it emphasizes self-awareness and gaining insight. By exploring the unconscious, individuals can understand the roots of their emotional struggles and gain the clarity needed to address them. 

Who research says it’s good for: It is beneficial for individuals dealing with long-standing emotional difficulties, complex relationship issues, personality disorders, depression and anxiety. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) 

What is it? CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, and that by changing negative thought patterns, we can improve our emotional responses and behaviors. CBT is a structured, goal-oriented therapy that focuses on teaching individuals practical skills to manage their thoughts and behaviors. 

Why it works: CBT works because it empowers individuals to recognize and challenge distorted or harmful thinking patterns. By addressing these thoughts, people can change their emotional responses and behavioral patterns, leading to long-lasting improvements in their mental health. 

Who research says it’s good for: CBT is an effective treatment for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and phobias. It’s particularly useful for those looking for a short-term, structured, and practical approach to addressing specific mental health concerns.

Relational Therapy 

What is it? Relational therapy focuses on exploring how relationships shape our sense of self and how we relate to others. In relational therapy, the relationship with the therapist is utilized as the primary healing agent by working through conflict, building trust, and developing healthy relationship dynamics within sessions. The therapy focuses on creating a safe, collaborative environment where the therapist and client work together to explore relational patterns. 

Why it works: Relational therapy works because it helps individuals understand how their relationship patterns might be affecting their mental health and provides a space for repairing trust and connection, utilizing the therapeutic relationship as a guide for relationships with others. 

Who research says it’s good for: Relational therapy is helpful for people who have attachment difficulties, social anxiety, or problems with intimacy and trust. It can also be effective for those dealing with unresolved issues from past relationships. 

Somatic Therapy 

What is it? Somatic therapy focuses on the connection between the body and mind. It is based on the understanding that trauma, stress, and emotions are often stored in the body, which can manifest as physical tension, pain, or other bodily symptoms. Somatic therapy combines talk therapy with body-focused techniques to help individuals release trauma and tension stored in the body, facilitating healing on both an emotional and physical level. 

Why it works: Somatic therapy works by addressing the mind-body connection. This can lead to individuals achieving deeper healing and releasing stored emotional trauma that may not be accessible through traditional talk therapy alone. It encourages mindfulness and awareness of bodily sensations, which can promote relaxation and emotional release. 

Who research says it’s good for: Somatic therapy is beneficial for those with trauma, anxiety, or chronic stress, especially those who struggle to express emotions verbally. 

Humanistic Existentialism 

What is it? Humanistic Existentialism involves focusing on individual potential and self-actualization, while exploring themes of meaning, choice, and responsibility. It emphasizes personal growth, authenticity, and the search for meaning in life. The therapist works with the individual to explore values, beliefs, and existential questions, helping them navigate the challenges of life and make more meaningful choices. 

Why it works: Humanistic Existentialism works because it encourages individuals to live authentically and take responsibility for their choices. By examining life’s deeper meanings, individuals are empowered to create a life that aligns with their true values and purpose. This

approach promotes self-acceptance and helps people build resilience in the face of life's challenges. 

Who research says it’s good for: This is ideal for individuals facing existential crises, major life transitions, or those seeking a deeper sense of meaning and purpose. 

Psychoeducation 

What is it? Psychoeducation involves providing individuals with information and education about mental health conditions, coping strategies, healthy living, and the biology of the brain. This approach is designed to increase a person’s understanding of psychological concepts and help them develop the tools to manage their mental health effectively. Psychoeducation is often used in conjunction with other forms of therapy to enhance learning and personal development. 

Why it works: Psychoeducation works because it empowers individuals with knowledge and practical skills that help them better understand and manage their mental health, leading to greater self-awareness and emotional stability. 

Who research says it’s good for: It’s useful for those dealing with anxiety, depression, addiction, or anyone seeking to understand and manage their mental health better. 

Integrative Approach 

What is it? The integrative approach is a flexible and holistic therapy that combines elements from various therapeutic modalities, tailored to the unique needs of each individual. Rather than sticking to one specific method, the integrative approach blends techniques from different schools of therapy to create a personalized treatment plan. 

Why it works: The integrative approach works because it allows therapists to adapt to the specific needs and preferences of the individual. It recognizes that there is no one-size-fits-all solution and that different people may benefit from different therapeutic techniques at different times. 

Who research says it’s good for: The integrative approach is effective for individuals with complex or co-occurring issues, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma. It’s a good fit for people who may not respond to one specific therapy or who have diverse therapeutic needs. 

Conclusion 

These are just a few of the many approaches to therapy available, and while research can give us valuable insights into what tends to work for specific issues, it’s important to remember that therapy is highly individual. There are various types of therapies within each of these categories, and what works best for you may depend on your unique needs, preferences, and goals. The key is to find the approach that feels most comfortable and resonates with you. Expansive has a wide array of therapists who offer therapy modalities from all of these frameworks. Don’t be afraid to try different therapies and therapists to find the best fit for your personal journey of healing and growth.