Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet many people struggle silently with mental illness every day. Whether you’re navigating severe depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, or other psychiatric disorders, seeking help can be life-changing. Therapy used in mental health treatment is not one-size-fits-all. With a variety of therapeutic approaches available, individuals can find a path that works best for their specific mental health conditions.
This article explores eight common forms of psychotherapy used to treat mental health disorders. If you or a friend or family member is facing mental health issues or substance use, understanding your treatment options is a powerful first step toward healing.
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive behavioral therapy is one of the most common forms of therapy used in mental health treatment today. Often referred to as CBT, this structured and goal-oriented therapy helps individuals understand how their thoughts affect their feelings and behaviors.
CBT is based on the idea that negative thoughts and distorted thinking patterns can lead to unwanted behaviors. Through sessions with a licensed mental health professional, patients learn techniques to recognize these patterns and reframe them into healthier, more realistic perspectives.
CBT often includes homework assignments that encourage clients to apply new skills between sessions. It’s highly effective for treating depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and even substance use disorders.
2. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy is a form of behavioral therapy originally developed to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder. Now it’s used for various mental health conditions, especially those involving intense emotions.
DBT emphasizes four key areas:
- Emotion regulation
- Distress tolerance
- Mindfulness
- Interpersonal effectiveness
For someone dealing with addiction or self-harming behaviors, DBT provides tools to manage overwhelming feelings and improve daily functioning. In both individual and group therapy settings, patients learn how to respond to challenging situations without resorting to destructive behavior.
3. Psychodynamic Therapy
Rooted in the theories of Sigmund Freud, psychodynamic therapy focuses on uncovering unconscious patterns and unresolved conflicts from early life that may be affecting a person’s mental well-being today.
This type of therapy is often called talk therapy, as it involves open-ended conversations between the patient and the therapist. Over time, it helps the person identify deep-seated emotions and motivations that influence current relationships and behaviors.
Psychodynamic therapy is used to treat a wide range of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and trauma. It can be especially effective for people who want to explore the “why” behind their feelings and behaviors in a safe environment.
4. Exposure Therapy
Exposure therapy is a specialized form of cognitive therapy that helps individuals confront fears, phobias, and traumatic memories. It’s commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), phobias, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Under the guidance of a licensed mental health professional, the patient is gradually exposed to the source of their fear in a controlled, supportive setting. This helps reduce avoidance behavior and desensitize the person to the fear over time.
For example, a person with social anxiety might start by imagining a social situation, then work up to practicing real-life conversations to build confidence and reduce symptoms.
5. Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
Interpersonal therapy is a short-term approach that focuses on improving a person’s communication skills and resolving relationship problems. It recognizes that mental illness often arises from or contributes to difficulties with others.
IPT can help individuals:
- Navigate grief
- Resolve interpersonal conflicts
- Adjust to life changes (e.g., divorce, job loss)
- Build healthier relationships
This therapy is beneficial for treating depression, including severe depression, and is often part of a broader treatment plan that may also include medication or other therapies.
6. Family Therapy
Family therapy involves working with one or multiple members in a shared session with a therapist. This approach recognizes that mental health conditions do not occur in isolation—they affect and are affected by the family system.
A licensed mental health professional guides the family through discussions to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and foster a deeper understanding of how to support one another.
For individuals struggling with substance use or other mental health issues, involving loved ones in the process can offer powerful healing. Family therapy helps family members become more actively engaged in recovery and learn how to recognize warning signs of relapse or emotional distress.
7. Group Therapy
In group therapy, a small number of participants with similar challenges come together under the leadership of a trained mental health professional. This group setting allows individuals to share experiences, offer support, and practice new coping strategies in a non-judgmental space.
Group therapy is commonly used to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders and mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use disorders. It may be offered on its own or as part of a comprehensive mental health treatment approach that includes individual therapy.
Some support groups may also include education about specific topics like relapse prevention or coping with cravings, offering other benefits beyond emotional support.
8. Behavior Therapy
Behavior therapy focuses on changing unwanted behaviors through reinforcement and learning strategies. While it’s often used alongside cognitive therapy (as in CBT), behavioral therapy on its own is based on the belief that abnormal behaviors are learned and can be unlearned.
Techniques may include:
- Positive reinforcement
- Modeling desired behavior
- Systematic desensitization
- Behavior contracts
Behavior therapy is often used to treat children and adults with conditions like ADHD, anxiety, OCD, and behavioral problems. When combined with other treatment options, it can be highly effective in helping a person manage their symptoms and improve daily functioning.
Working With Mental Health Professionals
Mental health therapy can be an invaluable form of support, education, and collaboration when navigating a new or changing mental health condition. When seeking therapy, it’s important to work with mental health professionals who are trained and licensed to deliver care tailored to your needs.
These may include:
- Psychologists
- Psychiatrists (who can prescribe medications)
- Licensed clinical social workers
- Licensed professional counselors
Your therapist will conduct an assessment to determine the best treatment plan based on your specific mental health conditions, symptoms, life history, and goals.
A Note on Medication and Other Therapies
For some, medication may be a helpful component of treatment, particularly for more severe cases of depression, bipolar disorder, or other psychiatric disorders. Medication can work alongside therapy to regulate brain chemistry and reduce intense symptoms.
Other therapies and resources—such as mobile apps, mindfulness practices, or holistic treatments like art or music therapy—may complement your work with a therapist. The key is finding a personalized treatment approach that supports long-term healing and improved quality of life.
Find Therapy and Mental Health Treatment Now
Mental illness can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. There are many types of psychotherapy available, each offering a unique path to recovery. Whether through talk therapy, group therapy, family therapy, or one of the other evidence-based methods described above, help is within reach.
If you or someone you care about is struggling, reach out to First Step Behavioral Health. Our treatment center offers comprehensive services, including assessments and holistic treatment programs. Contact our team to explore your treatment options or to schedule an intake assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Mental Health Therapies
1. How do I know which type of therapy is right for me?
Choosing the right therapy depends on your symptoms, personal preferences, and treatment goals. A licensed mental health professional will typically conduct an assessment to recommend the most suitable approach. You may also consider whether you feel more comfortable in one-on-one sessions, in a group setting, or involving family members in your treatment.
2. Can therapy be effective without medication?
Yes, many people experience significant improvement through psychotherapy alone, especially when symptoms are mild to moderate. However, for more severe conditions like bipolar disorder or treatment-resistant depression, combining therapy with medication may provide better outcomes. Your provider can help you explore what works best for your specific situation.
3. What should I expect during my first therapy session?
Your first session usually focuses on getting to know your therapist, discussing your concerns, and setting goals. You might be asked about your medical history, daily functioning, relationships, and emotional well-being. It’s also a chance to ask questions and determine whether you feel comfortable with the therapist’s style and approach.
4. Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
For many individuals, online therapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions, particularly for talk-based methods like cognitive-behavioral therapy. It also offers added convenience and accessibility, especially for those with mobility issues, busy schedules, or limited access to local providers.
5. How long does therapy usually last?
Therapy can range from short-term (a few weeks or months) to long-term (a year or more), depending on your needs. Some people benefit from brief, solution-focused therapy, while others find ongoing support helpful in managing chronic mental health conditions or recovering from trauma.
6. What if I don’t feel a connection with my therapist?
A strong therapeutic relationship is key to successful treatment. If you don’t feel understood, supported, or safe, it’s okay to explore other options. Most mental health professionals expect and respect that finding the right fit is essential. You have the right to advocate for your care and switch providers if necessary.
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