Choosing the right type of psychological therapy depends on the situation, the scientific evidence supporting each approach, and individual needs.
There are several approaches to this psychology Internationally recognized and validated for its effectiveness in treating various mental health problems.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
It is the most widely used and studied approach worldwide.
It consists of identifying and modifying Thought patternsand dysfunctional behavior.
What is it for?:
- Anxiety disorders (phobias, panic, generalized anxiety)
- depression
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- eating disorders
- Behavioral problems in children and adolescents
- Work or academic stress
Recommended for: Children, teenagers, adults and older adults.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
The focus is on improving interpersonal skills and solving problems in relationships or attachments.
- What is it for?: depression, grief, interpersonal conflicts, life transitions (divorce, moving, retirement).
- Recommended for: Adolescents, adults and older adults.
Systemic therapy
The main goal of short-term systemic therapy is to bring about changes in the shortest possible time.
It is based on the counselor’s resources and focuses not only on his individual behavior, but also on his relationships with other important systems, such as the couple, the family or the work and community environment.
- What is it for?:
- Helps to solve difficulties in family, couple, school, work and social relationships.
- It allows the treatment of disorders such as depression and anxiety, taking into account the dynamics of the patient’s environment.
- Strengthens the counselor’s personal and social resources to achieve therapeutic goals.
Humanistic therapy (person-centered therapy)
- Description: Promotes self-knowledge, self-acceptance and personal development.
- What is it for?: Existential difficulties, low self-esteem and identity problems
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Description: Combines CBT techniques with acceptance and mindfulness strategies.
- What is it for?: Anxiety, depression, chronic pain, social anxiety disorder.
- Vocational training: Confirm that the therapist has a university degree in psychology, a specialty and is certified by a recognized institution. You can view his professional license at this link: https://cedulaprofesional.sep.gob.mx/
- specialization: Check the experience with the therapeutic approach and the type of problem you want to treat.
- References and opinions: Consult opinions from other patients or recommendations from doctors.
- Professional ethics: An ethical psychologist will neither prescribe medication nor promise miracle cures.
- Exclude pseudotherapies: Methods such as biodecoding, family constellations, angel therapy and the like have neither scientific support nor are they recognized by international health organizations. They can jeopardize mental health and delay access to effective treatments.
- Make a list of symptoms or situations that worry you.
- Think about when they started and whether they have changed over time.
- Write down current important events in your life.
A psychologist will help you delve deeper into these aspects and guide the appropriate intervention.
No prior diagnosis is required for a consultation. It is enough to recognize that your discomfort is affecting your daily life or relationships.
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