Individual therapy offers one-on-one sessions with a trained therapist. These private, confidential conversations occur in a safe, supportive environment, aiming to meet you where you are and help you envision where you want to go. Sessions may explore past and present relationships, unresolved trauma, and other psychological and emotional factors affecting your life. Working closely with your therapist, you’ll identify how these issues impact you currently, set personal treatment goals, and develop specific strategies to achieve positive change.
Types of Individual Therapy:
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) DBT is a structured form of therapy that combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with concepts from Eastern mindfulness practices. It focuses on helping you develop skills to manage intense emotions, improve interpersonal relationships, and reduce self-destructive behaviors. Through DBT, you learn to accept your experiences while working actively towards change.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) CBT is a widely used approach that helps you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. By breaking down overwhelming problems into smaller, more manageable parts, CBT helps you understand how your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected. This therapy is particularly effective for treating anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) EMDR is a therapeutic approach that helps you process and heal from traumatic memories. It uses guided eye movements to help your brain reprocess these memories, reducing their emotional intensity. EMDR can be particularly effective for those who have experienced significant trauma, helping to alleviate symptoms of PTSD and other related conditions.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) ACT encourages you to accept your thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling guilty about them. It focuses on mindfulness strategies and commitment to personal values, helping you live a more meaningful and fulfilling life. ACT aims to reduce the impact of negative thoughts and emotions, empowering you to make choices that align with your core values and goals.
All these approaches to individual therapy are proven effective in treating people struggling with alcohol and substance use disorders. The type and amount of individual therapy you receive depend on your level of care and what works best for you.