Life is full of challenges. From the stress of work to conflicts within relationships to internal struggles, it can be difficult for people to know how to handle the whirlwind of emotions that surrounds them. One-on-one therapy can be a welcome balm for someone experiencing a tumultuous time in life.
If you need someone to listen without judgment and tools you can use to better navigate relationships and stress, many types of individual therapy can help. At Columbia Mental Health, we believe mental health counseling is a path to a better life.
4 types of individual therapy
Though there are many treatment modalities, individuals commonly use these four therapy options as they seek to better understand themselves or navigate relationships more effectively.
1. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
CBT is one of the most commonly used practices for therapists and their clients. This treatment method helps people recognize negative thought patterns and helps them discover new patterns that alleviate stress and anxiety. It’s most common for CBT to be used for anxiety, depression, and stress.
Participating in CBT involves:
- Assignments between sessions for real-world practice
- Short-term and highly structured sessions
- Evidence-based and personalized care
2. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
DBT mirrors CBT but incorporates elements of mindfulness, emotional regulation, and interpersonal skills. Originally developed to treat clients diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, DBT has since been proven effective for a range of mental health needs. It’s commonly used for clients experiencing emotional dysregulation and relationship conflicts.
Participating in DBT involves:
- Learning to accept your emotions while working toward change at the same time
- Practicing new, more effective coping skills
3. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
ACT helps people accept, rather than avoid, painful emotions. It encourages clients to live in alignment, choosing actions that match their core values, while also developing psychological flexibility. This type of therapy can be very effective for people experiencing issues such as chronic stress, anxiety, or life transitions.
Participating in ACT involves:
- Combining mindfulness with action-oriented strategies
- Focusing on values-based living instead of symptom elimination
4. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is a unique approach to therapy that uses eye movements or other bilateral stimulation techniques to help the brain process traumatic events. This type of therapy is particularly effective for those experiencing the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
It can also be effective in cases where:
- People are recovering from abuse
- Individuals are grieving a loss
EMDR can help clients experiencing these things to have reduced long-term emotional distress.
No matter the type of therapy you and your therapist decide is best for your needs, talking to an experienced professional about your life and your struggles is a healthy step toward a more satisfying, embodied life.
Personalized mental health care at Columbia Mental Health
Columbia Mental Health understands that therapy is never one-size-fits-all. We take the time to understand each client’s history, preferences, and personal goals in order to recommend the most appropriate approach. Your care plan will reflect your unique life and path to healing.
Clients have access to services across a variety of locations, as well as telehealth options for added flexibility.
Get started with individual therapy at Columbia Mental Health today
If you’re considering one-on-one therapy for the first time or looking to try another type of therapy, call us 703.682.8208 today. Our compassionate team is ready to help you find the right fit for you.
For new clients, please click here to schedule an appointment. For existing clients, please click here and find your office location to contact your office directly.