Types of Psychotherapy

Therapists use a wide range of techniques and approaches to treat mental illness and psychological
distress. In this section, learn more about some of the most commonly used types of psychotherapy.

Types of Therapy
Find descriptions and information on different types of therapy including psychoanalysis, cognitive-
behavioral, and group therapy.
What Is Group Therapy?
Group therapy is a type of psychotherapy that involves one or more therapists working with several
people at the same time. This type of therapy is widely available at a variety of locations, including
private therapeutic practices, hospitals, mental health clinics and community centers.
What Is Cognitive Behavior Therapy?
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapeutic treatment that helps patients to
understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. CBT is commonly used to treat a wide
range of disorders, including phobias, addition, depression and anxiety disorders.
What Is Art Therapy?
Art therapy integrates psychotherapeutic techniques with the creative process to improve mental
health and well being. Learn more about what art therapy is and how it is used in psychology.
What Is Psychoanalytic Therapy?
Psychoanalytic therapy is one of the most well-known treatment modalities, but it is also one of the
most misunderstood by mental health consumers. This type of therapy is based upon the theories and
work of Sigmund Freud, who founded the school of psychology known as psychoanalysis.
What Is Aversion Therapy?
Aversion therapy uses principles from behavioral psychology to help reduce or eliminate unwanted
behaviors. Learn more about the uses, effectiveness and criticisms of aversion therapy.
Client-Centered Therapy
Client-centered therapy is a non-directive technique developed by humanist psychologist Carl Rogers
that emphasizes the importance of unconditional positive regard.
Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy
Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) was developed by psychologist Albert Ellis in the 1950s.
Today, it remains a popular form of cognitive therapy.
Electroconvulsive Therapy
Electroconvulsive therapy is a treatment that involves inducing seizures while a patient is under
anesthesia. While ECT remains controversial, it is still used today in the treatment of depression,
mania, and some other disorders.
What Is Behavioral Therapy?
Behavioral therapy focuses on specific behaviors and can be particularly effective in the treatment of
phobias and behavioral problems. Learn more about how this process works and the different
techniques used in behavioral therapy.
What Is Talk Therapy?
Talk therapy is a classic method heavily linked to psychoanalysis, but also widely used in other forms
of psychotherapy.

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