What types of therapies does Karen use and what do they mean?
CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)
Cognitive-behavioral therapy emphasizes the belief that thoughts, rather than people or events, cause many of our negative feelings. CBT helps individuals identify thoughts and then modify resulting behaviors. Through a structured approach, the counselor and individual identify ways to meet life’s challenges.
DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy)
Dialectical Behavior Therapy combines a skills-based approach with exercises that help individuals tolerate distress, regulate emotions, and improve relationships. It is often helpful in alleviating intense emotional pain.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reproccessing)
EMDR is an information processing therapy that helps individuals cope with trauma. The goal of EMDR is to process distressing memories and reduce the emotional “charge.” This is accomplished in an eight-step protocol that includes bilateral sensory input. (Bilateral refers to “both sides.”) For more information, check out www.emdria.org.
ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy)
ACT is based on detecting and targeting key processes: defusion, acceptance, attention to the present moment, self-awareness, values, and committed action. The goals are greater psychological flexibility and a learned ability to approach distress in a new way.
SFBT (Solution Focused Brief Therapy)
Solution-focused brief therapy focuses on specific goals and targets what works, rather than what’s wrong. Strengths and resources are emphasized as the individual maps out the changes necessary to realize a desired outcome or vision.
Narrative Therapy
Narrative therapy embraces the idea that the stories we tell about ourselves can shape our behaviors and our lives. Each individual is the author and the expert of his or her own life. Narrative therapy involves identifying which narratives of our lives are helpful as well as which are unhelpful.
Play Therapy
Play therapy takes place in a structured environment with games and toys provided by the therapist. Behavior, affect, and conversation is observed and facilitated to help the child understand and work through difficulties.
Positive Discipline
Positive discipline employs: mutual respect, problem-solving skills, effective communication, focus on solutions rather than punishment, encouragement rather than praise.