Many therapists are introduced to a range of techniques during their training. Some continue to work flexibly between them, while others commit to and develop their expertise in one throughout their careers.

Read the four most common therapy formats and determine which is best for you.

Individual Therapy

When we think of the word 'therapy,' most think of this form of therapy: a therapist in one chair and a patient/client in the other, either face-to-face or with one (hopefully the patient) lying on the couch.

Couples Therapy

Usually attended by romantic partners, but some therapists also see people experiencing difficulties in friendships, work relationships or even between neighbours. Couples tend to seek couples therapy during a relationship breakdown or crisis. This might be because of infidelity, resentment, poor communication, financial difficulties, or ongoing parenting conflicts.

Therapy can help resolve the underlying issues or help the couple separate while meeting their responsibilities, e.g., parenting or work demands. Some couples attend couples therapy to improve their already functioning relationship and achieve greater intimacy and depth.

Couples therapy can also be a helpful place for an engaged couple to begin to anticipate and prepare for difficulties, e.g. differences in values, religion or culture.

Family Therapy

Family therapy helps whole families resolve conflict and improve their interaction and communication. At least two family members attend, but more is beneficial since family therapists aim to work with the dynamics affecting the family system.

Group Therapy

Group therapy usually refers to one of four things: support groups, skills groups, teaching groups or psychotherapy groups.

As the name suggests, support groups aim to provide a supportive space for people to meet others facing similar problems. These can be either peer- or professionally-led. Skills and teaching groups are a little like classes and provide psychoeducation or coping skills for focused issues (e.g. dealing with a panic attack).

Psychotherapy groups are sometimes called process groups. These groups use the process of the group in therapeutic ways (e.g. an opportunity to discover how other people see you and experience life). \

Each of these groups can be constituted in different ways, e.g. long-term or short-term, similar ages or a range of ages, similar difficulties or challenges, etc.

Group therapy is an efficient and effective mode of intervention both by itself and in conjunction with other methods. Running a psychotherapy group is an advanced skill, and it is important to seek therapists who have received additional training.

In conclusion, therapy offers diverse formats tailored to address specific needs. Choosing the most suitable therapy format hinges on your specific circumstances and objectives. Remember to seek out well-versed and experienced therapists in your chosen format for the most effective support.

Ultimately, the success of therapy lies in finding the approach that resonates with you and aligns with your journey towards healing and personal development.

Many therapists are introduced to a range of techniques during their training. Some continue to work flexibly between them, while others commit to and develop their expertise in one throughout their careers.

Read the four most common therapy formats and determine which is best for you.

Individual Therapy

When we think of the word 'therapy,' most think of this form of therapy: a therapist in one chair and a patient/client in the other, either face-to-face or with one (hopefully the patient) lying on the couch.

Couples Therapy

Usually attended by romantic partners, but some therapists also see people experiencing difficulties in friendships, work relationships or even between neighbours. Couples tend to seek couples therapy during a relationship breakdown or crisis. This might be because of infidelity, resentment, poor communication, financial difficulties, or ongoing parenting conflicts.

Therapy can help resolve the underlying issues or help the couple separate while meeting their responsibilities, e.g., parenting or work demands. Some couples attend couples therapy to improve their already functioning relationship and achieve greater intimacy and depth.

Couples therapy can also be a helpful place for an engaged couple to begin to anticipate and prepare for difficulties, e.g. differences in values, religion or culture.

Family Therapy

Family therapy helps whole families resolve conflict and improve their interaction and communication. At least two family members attend, but more is beneficial since family therapists aim to work with the dynamics affecting the family system.

Group Therapy

Group therapy usually refers to one of four things: support groups, skills groups, teaching groups or psychotherapy groups.

As the name suggests, support groups aim to provide a supportive space for people to meet others facing similar problems. These can be either peer- or professionally-led. Skills and teaching groups are a little like classes and provide psychoeducation or coping skills for focused issues (e.g. dealing with a panic attack).

Psychotherapy groups are sometimes called process groups. These groups use the process of the group in therapeutic ways (e.g. an opportunity to discover how other people see you and experience life). \

Each of these groups can be constituted in different ways, e.g. long-term or short-term, similar ages or a range of ages, similar difficulties or challenges, etc.

Group therapy is an efficient and effective mode of intervention both by itself and in conjunction with other methods. Running a psychotherapy group is an advanced skill, and it is important to seek therapists who have received additional training.

In conclusion, therapy offers diverse formats tailored to address specific needs. Choosing the most suitable therapy format hinges on your specific circumstances and objectives. Remember to seek out well-versed and experienced therapists in your chosen format for the most effective support.

Ultimately, the success of therapy lies in finding the approach that resonates with you and aligns with your journey towards healing and personal development.