What is psychological therapy?

There are different approaches to psychological therapy but all, regardless of the particular philosophy, aim to help people overcome emotional, behavioural and interpersonal problems. Some approaches, such as psychodynamic therapy, focus extensively on childhood and developmental events.  Other approaches, such as counselling, don't seek to actively help the individual change but rather, offer support and an opportunity to talk about feelings.  In general, the evidence suggests that these approaches tend not achieve very much of real significance even after many sessions. 

On the other hand, contemporary research suggests that the most effective approach to the most common psychological problems is known as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT).  This approach tends to be short term (about 10 sessions) and very effective in achieving desired and meaningful changes.  CBT focuses mostly on the way people think about things (including their attitudes and beliefs) and the way they do things.  CBT helps people identify where their thoughts and actions are self-defeating, and then to replace these "bad habits" with more helpful thoughts and responses.  In doing so, CBT has been proven to be the most effective intervention for problems such as depression, anxiety, panic, stress, insomnia, relationship difficulties and coping with chronic illness (such as pain). 

Finally, CBT is the approach that is most similar to coaching psychology (see FAQ list for "What is Coaching?").  That is, CBT is very much focused on helping people achieve their goals and to get more out of life.  As well as helping people to change their thinking, CBT also involves teaching people a range of appropriate and practical strategies to overcome the hurdles and obstacles in their lives and to be happier and more productive. 

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