What are the differences among psychodynamic, cognitive/behavioral, and experiential therapies?
A psychodynamic approach examines conflicts within yourself as well as patterns you tend to repeat in your relationships. There are many different psychodynamic models such as Self Psychology, Interpersonal and Relational Theory, and Internal Family Systems. Cognitive/Behavioral Therapy (CBT) addresses symptoms directly by focusing on maladaptive thoughts and behaviors. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy is an innovative form of CBT that focuses on managing strong emotions. Experiential therapy uses expressive methods like art and movement or strategies like mindfulness meditation. These techniques are ways to get closer to buried feelings and states of mind. The therapists at The Awakening Center are integrative or eclectic, blending elements of all these approaches. What is the difference between psychotherapy and psychoanalysis? In psychotherapy, your therapist is usually more interactive and you are sitting up facing the therapist. Psychoanalysis is a more intensive process. You might
