Therapy Modalities: What’s the Difference?
The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a staggering 25% increase in anxiety and depression worldwide (WHO, n.d.). As a result, many therapists have reached full capacity, leaving individuals in need of mental health support on waiting lists.
If you're seeking therapy, knowing which therapy modality aligns with your needs can help streamline the process of finding the right therapist. Understanding the most common types of therapy can also empower you to make an informed decision about your mental health care.
What Are Therapy Modalities?
A therapy modality refers to a structured approach or technique used in psychotherapy to help individuals manage mental health conditions, process emotions, and develop coping strategies. Different modalities cater to various needs, from treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD to supporting individuals with chronic stress, trauma, and personal growth.
Below, we explore some of the most widely used and evidence-based therapy approaches available today.
Common Therapy Modalities and Their Benefits
1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a short-term, structured form of therapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns. It operates on the principle that thoughts influence emotions and behaviors, meaning that altering negative thinking can lead to emotional and behavioral improvements (Beck, 2021).
Benefits of CBT:
Well-researched and highly effective
Helps manage anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance use disorders, disordered eating, and grief
Focuses on practical skills and coping mechanisms
Typically lasts 6 to 20 sessions
2. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT is a mindfulness-based therapy that encourages individuals to accept difficult emotions rather than avoid or suppress them. This modality emphasizes living in alignment with core values while making meaningful changes in life (Harris, 2019).
Who Benefits from ACT?
Individuals with anxiety, depression, OCD, substance use disorders, and chronic stress
People managing the psychological effects of chronic pain
Those looking to build emotional resilience and self-compassion
3. Expressive Arts Therapy
Expressive Arts Therapy integrates creative expression into the therapeutic process, allowing individuals to explore emotions through artistic activities such as painting, music, dance, or writing. It is particularly beneficial for those who struggle with verbal communication (Northwest Expressive & Creative Arts Institute, 2023).
Why Choose Expressive Arts Therapy?
Helps individuals express emotions non-verbally
Supports stress relief, trauma processing, and personal insight
Focuses on the creative process rather than the end result
Useful for children, adolescents, and adults dealing with emotional challenges
4. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is a structured therapy designed to help individuals process traumatic experiences through guided eye movements and cognitive processing techniques. Research has shown that EMDR can significantly reduce the emotional distress linked to chronic, acute, and developmental trauma (EMDR Institute, 2022).
Key Benefits of EMDR:
Highly effective for PTSD and trauma-related disorders
Reduces emotional distress from past experiences
Helps reframe negative beliefs and reactions
Can lead to long-term emotional healing in fewer sessions compared to traditional talk therapy
Take the Next Step Toward Mental Wellness
Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or personal growth challenges, choosing the right therapy modality can be a transformative step toward mental well-being. At SageMED, we are here to support you on your journey.
If you're ready to start therapy, contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our compassionate professionals.
References
American Psychological Association. (n.d.). What is cognitive behavioral therapy?. APA. https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioral
EMDR Institute. (2022, October 20). What is EMDR?. EMDR Institute. https://www.emdr.com/what-is-emdr/
Northwest Creative & Expressive Arts Institute. (2023, August 28). Why Art Therapy and Expressive Arts Therapy?. Northwest Creative & Expressive Arts Institute. https://seattlearttherapy.org/
Sussex Publishers. (n.d.). Acceptance and commitment therapy. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapy-types/acceptance-and-commitment-therapy
World Health Organization. (n.d.). Covid-19 pandemic triggers 25% increase in prevalence of anxiety and depression worldwide. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news/item/02-03-2022-covid-19-pandemic-triggers-25-increase-in-prevalence-of-anxiety-and-depression-worldwide
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