Frequently Asked Questions
What are psychotherapeutic methods?Methods of treatment of mental and emotional disorders using psychological methods. This does not include physiological interventions, such as drug therapy, although it may be used in combination with such methods.
Cognitive therapy: The patient learns to think effectively e.g. in the case of eating disorders "I am normal and it is the photographer's models who are abnormally slim" instead of: "the photographer's models are perfect and I want to look like them. I must reduce my weight".
Behavioural therapy: Behavior therapy aims to help the patient eliminate undesirable habits or irrational fears through conditioning. In regards to addictions - attendance at support groups such as AA, NA and Alanon, is encouraged.
Psychodynamic therapy: This therapeutic method does not put the symptoms in focus. Instead, the inner world of emotional conflicts and deeply imprinted memories of relations are assumed to be causes of the symptoms, and this may not be consciously understood by the patient. The therapist also focuses on what happens in the relationship between therapist and patient, and this helps to understand and connect the impact of earlier negative relationships.
Humanistic therapy: Humanistic therapy tends to be more optimistic, basing its treatment on the theory that individuals have a natural inclination to strive toward self-fulfillment.
Gestalt therapy: The main point of this method is for patients to learn to identify their real needs and feelings.
Family therapy: The whole family of a person with mental disorders often needs help in learning how to manage the problem.
Group therapy: Patients discuss their problems in a group and the realization that others have similar needs may make it easier to understand their own problems. Members of the group help each other.
