Introduction to Psychology Therapies

Psychotherapy Any psychological technique used to facilitate positive changes in a person’s personality, behavior, and adjustment

“Best Practices” Research indicates the most effective therapies based on the presenting problem

Types of Therapy Individual Group Family Play Brief

Conceptualizations of Psychopathology Psychodynamic Humanistic Behavioral Cognitive Cognitive- behavioral Existential

Psychodynamic Approach Disturbances are caused by underlying conflicts; repression Id/ego/superego are in conflict

Psychodynamic Approach Free association: saying whatever comes to mind Transference/counter-transference Catharsis: emotional release Role of therapist: blank screen

Humanistic Approach Carl Rogers Non-directive Reflection of feelings Unconditional positive regard Role of therapist: supportive; empathetic and open

Humanistic Approach Based on the belief that people want to get better Reflection of ideas/feelings: so the person can hear his/her own voice

Existential Therapy Being-in-the-world creates conflict “existential dilemmas”: not living authentically, reaching our potential Search for meaning; leading a life of purpose Role of therapist: to confront/challenge, explore

Behavioral Therapy To modify behavior Assumption: mental illness results from learned maladaptive behaviors Reinforcing more adaptive behaviors For phobias: systematic desensitization

Cognitive Therapy Albert Ellis Correcting distortions in thinking All-or-nothing thinking Confronting and reframing irrational thoughts Role of the therapist: to challenge, encourage healthier thought patterns

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Confronting irrational beliefs Encouraging specific healthy behaviors i.e. Assigning exercise as “homework” Encouraging an alcoholic to note situations/triggers and to actively avoid them

Counseling Skills Active listening Reiterating the main point Reflection of feelings Use of open postures

Therapeutic Skills Reframing Confrontation Making associations; inviting the person to consider them Education Use of silence Open questions

Therapeutic Alliance Building rapport Good “match” between therapist and client Cultural differences? Gender differences?

Confidentiality and Reporting When/why do we break confidentiality? Tarasoff case: duty to warn

Ethical Issues Should therapists give advice? Dating/sexual relationships? Should therapists receive therapy themselves?