What is Therapy Anyways?
By Brittany Albright MD
Therapy, also often knows as counseling or psychotherapy, is a general term that refers to the treatment of mental or emotional health problems by a graduate trained and licensed professional. Examples of professional therapists include licensed social workers (LISW-CP), licensed professional counselors (LPCs), licensed marriage and family therapists, psychologists (PhD, PsyD), licensed drug and alcohol counselors (LDAC), and psychiatrists (MD, DO). The goal of therapy is to help individuals improve their overall well-being, cope with difficult life experiences/relationships, and develop strategies to manage symptoms of mental health conditions.
There are many different types of therapy, each with their own unique approach and techniques. Some common types of therapy include:
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): focuses on changing negative thoughts and behaviors to improve mental health.
Psychodynamic therapy: examines how past experiences and relationships affect current emotions and behaviors.
Humanistic therapy: emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, self-expression, and personal growth.
Family therapy: involves working with families to improve communication and resolve conflicts.
Group therapy: involves multiple individuals with similar issues coming together to discuss their experiences and receive support.
Art therapy: uses creative expression to explore and address emotional and psychological issues.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): focuses on teaching individuals coping skills to manage intense emotions and improve relationships.
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): a specialized form of therapy for individuals who have experienced trauma.
Play therapy: uses play and other creative activities to help children process difficult emotions.
The type of therapy that is most appropriate for an individual will depend on their specific needs and circumstances. Every therapist has a unique style based on their training background, the evidence based therapy modalities they apply, their personality, and their life experiences. As therapists, we are called to practice in an evidence based manner to support our patients/clients to achieve their personal goals, which may be symptom relief, improved communication, improved relationships, working through specific interpersonal stressors, having a new understanding of oneself, being free from addictions/maladaptive habits, learning new coping skills, working on tolerating distress, working through challenging emotions, reconciling difficult experiences such as trauma, etc.
At Sweetgrass Psychiatry (locations in Mount Pleasant, SC and Isle of Palms, SC), we believe psychotherapy all to often focuses on symptom relief and adaptive functioning but should include self transformation and self-transcendent values and acts. We want you to discover your passions, create joy, and find your purpose in life. The benefits of therapy are endless. We want to make you the best version of you. You are unique and this world needs you.
Your therapist will provide support and guidance as you navigate your life transition and symptoms. They will help you identify any barriers that may be preventing you from finding your purpose in life and finding joy. Everyone's journey is unique and your therapist will tailor treatment to fit your specific needs.
We recommend that you come to therapy with an idea of your struggles, your strengths, your goals, and what typically works for you. We want to know if you want a more open ended, non-directive therapy or if you want a structured therapy with weekly homework, for example. Your feedback and communication with your therapist are essential for optimal outcomes. The most effective therapy is one where you have a strong rapport, connection, and trust in your therapist.
Therapy is just like physical exercise – you have to show up and do the work. Your therapist cannot do it for you but will be here to guide you. It may feel painful at times, exhausting at times, invigorating at times, and healing at times. You are worthy and the results will be worth it.
Call us at Sweetgrass Psychiatry in Mount Pleasant, SC to schedule your counseling appointment today.