The Most Common and Effective Types of Therapy

Learn about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Art Therapy, Psychotherapy & Affirmative Psychotherapy - the most common & effective types of therapy for mental health.

The Most Common and Effective Types of Therapy

When it comes to mental health, there are more than fifty types of therapeutic approaches. However, only a few of them are commonly used. These are the types you're most likely to encounter when seeking help for mental health issues. These approaches apply regardless of the other types of factors that may be involved.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most popular and effective treatments for mental health problems such as depression and anxiety. It focuses on changing attitudes and behavior by focusing on false thoughts and the beliefs behind them. Research shows that it is effective for most mental health problems. Art therapy is another type of therapy that is used to treat a wide range of mental health problems and personality disorders.

It is a very specific form of therapy facilitated by trained and licensed professionals. It involves activities and products such as coloring books for adults or certain therapy applications. Extensive research shows that combining CBT with psychotropic medications prescribed by a doctor, such as an antidepressant, is often very effective in treating major mental health problems. Psychotherapy is another type of therapy that gives you tools to address problems and understand how your relationships, your history and your environment influence the difficulties you have.

It can help you feel better, giving you the motivation and energy needed to actively participate in therapy. The length of mental health treatment depends on the therapeutic approach, the severity of the problems, and the preferences of the client and therapist. Affirmative psychotherapy is another type of therapy that focuses on authenticity and acceptance of sexual orientation. This type of therapy was created due to the history of mental health professionals who pathologized non-heterosexual orientations and tried to change them.

Licensed Mental Health Counselors (or LMHC) are not technically therapists, but they approach mental health care in a similar way. Jill E Daino, LCSW-R, a licensed therapist at Talkspace, is a licensed clinical social worker from New York with more than 25 years of experience in the mental health profession. Once you figure out what type is best for you, it'll be easier to structure your career or find a therapist who can help you quickly improve your mental health and be happier.