People with mood disorders, generalized anxiety and/or socialphobia often recommend psychodynamic therapy. Psychodynamic therapy aims to improve people’s self-esteem. Other psychological disorders have more specific goals, such as improving their sex life, overcoming a fear of public speaking, or quitting their obsessions. Listed below are some examples of different types of therapy and how they may be used.
The goal of humanistic therapy is to help people recognize and develop their own inherent goodness, rather than external factors. The therapist strives to foster a warm therapeutic relationship centered on the client’s unique world view. He or she believes that every individual is capable of psychological well-being and is good for their heart. Humanistic therapy seeks to empower the client’s inherent motivation for self-understanding and growth.
Client-centered therapy involves the therapist’s presence as a mirror, allowing the client to express and explore their feelings. The therapist also emphasizes empathy and non-judgmental acceptance of the client. Through this, the client can experience acceptance, growth, and self-acceptance. The therapist is not the authority figure, but instead an equal, nonjudgmental partner.
In the middle of the 20th century, humanistic psychology was developed. Humanistic psychology was born in response to the psychoanalysis and behaviorism theories. Abraham Maslow, a prominent figure of the humanistic movement in the 1950s, popularized humanistic psychological theory. This movement was instrumental in expanding psychology’s scope by incorporating creativity as well as individuality. When people become aware of their potential, they may seek it.
The May 1966 editorial published by the AAHP reaffirmed the commitment of a humanistic psychologist towards meaningness. This editorial argued against the dominant approach that relies on objectivity and significance. However, this approach does not rule out research. In fact, it highlights the importance of human science investigation and special forms of human psychology. Critics claim that traditional approaches to assessing the meaning of human experiences are inadequate.
Humanistic therapy focuses on developing empathy and meaning. Existential therapy focuses on the client’s freedom and responsibility. It may be particularly helpful in treatment of substance abuse disorders, which often require brief sessions. Its application to substance abuse disorders bolsters the therapeutic rapport. In addition, humanistic therapies aim to help people develop an acceptance of responsibility. Humanistic therapy can help clients realize their potential by focusing on self-awareness.