If psychodynamic psychotherapy is all about the unconscious mind, then cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is all about the present, conscious mind. CBT seeks quickly to establish the thoughts and behaviors that are causing emotional turmoil for the individual. Once established, the goal is not to identify the underlying, unconscious motivations that might lead to them but simply to address the evident thoughts and behaviors through a set of standardized tools intended to mitigate their influence and reduce their prevalence.
The tools acquired through CBT are basically straightforward psychological techniques for eliminating maladaptive thoughts and behaviors. Nonetheless, while the techniques can be straightforward, implementing and maintaining them can be quite challenging. The therapist not only teaches the techniques but facilitates their establishment through repetition and reinforcement during each session. The client then does the “homework” by practicing the techniques at home. The greater the rigor with which the client utilizes the tools, the quicker and more robust the improvement. CBT can be a powerful psychotherapeutic modality. But it too can be hard work, though different in character from psychodynamic psychotherapy.
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If you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or another mental health concern, it can impact all aspects of your life. You may become distant in your relationships, struggle in your career or even find it difficult to enjoy your favorite activities. When faced with a physical ailment, it’s perfectly reasonable to see a doctor for professional advice. Why shouldn’t mental and emotional health be treated with the same importance? Keep in mind that you are not alone; many people struggle with mental health issues and the good news is that many of them are highly treatable. They don’t have to stop you from enjoying your life. If you’ve been thinking about speaking to a mental health counselor, make an appointment with a therapist today at Qlarity Counseling.
Please click on the different sections below for a brief explanation of how each type of therapy typically works.