If you’re starting therapy for the first time, you may be surprised to learn that there are different types of psychotherapy that can potentially help to treat depression. The type of psychotherapy refers to the approach that your therapist uses to help you improve your mental health.
Many therapists specialize in one or two types of psychotherapy. Some use a blended style, in which they pull from different therapy types when they think it’s a good fit. Understanding the different types of psychotherapy may help you select a therapist who is going to be the right fit for you. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, you’re not alone. Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. 988.
Dr. Samuels is an assistant professor of clinical psychiatry and clinical pediatrics at Weill Cornell Medicine and an assistant attending psychiatrist at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.
References
American Psychological Association. (2009). Different approaches to psychotherapy.
Bailey, R., et al. (2022). Defense mechanisms. StatPearls [Internet].
Chand, S. P., et al. (2022). Cognitive behavioral therapy. StatPearls [Internet].
Locher, C., et al. (2019). Psychotherapy: a world of meanings. Frontiers in Psychology.
National Institute of Mental Health. (2022). Depression.
Rajhans, P., et al. (2020). Interpersonal psychotherapy for patients with mental disorders. Indian Journal of Psychiatry.
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