Finding the Talk Therapy That’s Right for You

Key Takeaways:

• Talk therapy is also called psychotherapy
• Various talk therapies were developed to treat different types of mental illness
• Every type of talk therapy has pros and cons

Mental illness must be identified and treated, just like a physical issue, to heal properly. There are various ways to treat mental illness, depending on its type and severity, including medication, hospitalization, and therapy. 

Some of the most successful methods are types of talk therapy that help to improve thought patterns, behavior, and coping skills. Three popular methods help ease symptoms of mental issues such as PTSD, OCD, borderline personality disorder, anxiety, depression, and panic disorder. 

This guide discusses the three most popular methods of talk therapy, how they work, and how to choose the right type for you.

Modes of Talk Therapy

Talk therapy is also called psychotherapy. It treats several mental illnesses by talking through emotionally challenging topics with therapists using specialized techniques that help identify and stop negative emotions and behaviors. 

The three most popular modes of talk therapy are:

Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT)

This therapy teaches you to challenge the validity of negative thought patterns and replace them with realistic options. Cognitive behavioral therapy is an effective treatment for issues such as OCD, anxiety, phobias, and sleeping disorders.

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) teaches skills that some people missed out on while growing up due to abuse or neglect, such as dealing with anger and pain and staying mindful. It is an effective treatment for people who self-harm, have suicidal ideation, or have other harmful behavioral patterns.

Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy involves directed eye movements while you recall distressing events from the past, helping to lessen the power that traumatic memories hold. It effectively treats PTSD, abuse, and everyday memories that cause low self-confidence and feelings of powerlessness.

These and other forms of psychotherapy are effective treatments for mental illness. Each has strengths and weaknesses. Weigh these varying characteristics when choosing a therapy for yourself or a loved one. 

Benefits of Talk Therapy

CBT, DBT, and EMDR impart lifelong benefits that change how a person sees the world, even after just a few sessions. It can improve several parts of your life, including:

Coping Skills

Therapy teaches you how to get through difficult times without losing your cool. Not everyone is taught healthy coping mechanisms in their life. Sometimes learning better is the option. 

Interpersonal Relationships

Therapy helps identify where your communication skills may be lacking and causing problems in your relationships. A therapist is also an excellent soundboard when unsure of the next steps to take to move forward in a positive and productive way.

Self-Understanding

Discussing your past, emotions, and thoughts with a therapist gives you access to a new, healthier outlook. You’re better able to see and understand why you made specific decisions, forgive yourself, and begin to heal.

Improvements in these vital areas lead to increased happiness and a better quality of life. There are still some risks to be aware of, however.

Drawbacks of Talk Therapy

Just because there are a great many benefits to talk therapy doesn’t mean there aren’t some drawbacks. There are a few issues some people might consider problematic, such as:

Cost

Therapy involves a licensed medical professional, which can be pricey in the American healthcare system. Therapy isn’t always available to everyone since the cost can be limiting. 

Homework

CBT, DBT, and EMDR often require homework to have the best chance at success. Self-assessment, modality-specific, and psychoeducational homework help make therapy more successful, but it can be time-consuming and emotionally challenging work.

On-Going Commitment

Talk therapy only works if the patient is working to make it happen. It isn’t a magic spell or miracle cure. The level of commitment and dedication required is not possible for everyone. 

The issues that constitute a drawback largely depend on the patient’s perspective. A major annoyance for one person may not phase another at all. Choosing the best type of therapy for you depends on more than a few perceived drawbacks.