Finding the Right Therapeutic Approach For You
In psychotherapy, each approach offers a unique lens through which to explore the human experience. From understanding our inner landscapes to healing relational wounds, different methods can guide us towards greater self-awareness and connection. Let’s delve into some of these approaches to uncover how they shape the journey of therapy.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) sees our mind as an internal family of distinct parts, each holding its own roles and functions. Whether it’s the critic, the protector, or the wounded child, IFS helps us embrace and heal these parts, restoring harmony within ourselves.
Gestalt Therapy focuses on the present moment, encouraging individuals to become aware of their thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. The core belief here is that we can only truly understand ourselves by staying present with what’s happening in the ‘here and now’.
Somatic Therapy understands that the body holds onto trauma. It helps individuals release tension and heal emotional wounds by working through sensations in the body. This approach bridges the gap between mind and body, empowering us to reconnect with our felt sense.
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), one of the most well-known approaches, focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns. By restructuring our thinking, we can shift how we feel and behave, creating more adaptive ways to respond to life's challenges.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) helps couples and individuals strengthen their emotional bonds. EFT focuses on identifying emotional patterns and fostering secure attachment by encouraging vulnerable, open communication.
Bowen Family Systems looks at how family dynamics shape individual behaviour. By understanding intergenerational patterns and emotional triggers, individuals can break free from unhealthy cycles and find healthier ways to relate.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) encourages individuals to embrace difficult thoughts and emotions rather than fighting them. By aligning actions with personal values, ACT fosters psychological flexibility and promotes meaningful, value-driven living.
Each of these approaches offers a unique path to healing and growth, but at the core, they all encourage deeper self-awareness and connection—to ourselves, our bodies, and each other.
