Not all therapy is the same. Understanding different approaches can help you find the right fit for your needs and preferences.
Common Therapy Types
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - **Focus**: Changing thought patterns and behaviors - **Good for**: Anxiety, depression, building practical skills - **Style**: Structured, homework-based, goal-oriented - **Consideration**: May need adaptation for neurodivergent clients
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) - **Focus**: Emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness - **Good for**: Intense emotions, relationship challenges, self-harm - **Style**: Skills-based, often includes group component - **Consideration**: Very structured, which works well for some
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) - **Focus**: Processing traumatic memories - **Good for**: PTSD, trauma, anxiety with known triggers - **Style**: Uses bilateral stimulation during memory processing - **Consideration**: Can be intense but often faster than talk therapy
Somatic Therapy - **Focus**: Body-based approaches to healing - **Good for**: Trauma stored in the body, sensory processing - **Style**: Attention to physical sensations and movement - **Consideration**: Great for those who struggle with "talking" therapy
Psychodynamic Therapy - **Focus**: Understanding unconscious patterns and past influences - **Good for**: Long-standing patterns, relationship issues - **Style**: Exploratory, insight-oriented - **Consideration**: Less structured, may take longer
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) - **Focus**: Accepting thoughts while committing to valued actions - **Good for**: Anxiety, chronic conditions, life transitions - **Style**: Values-based, mindfulness-oriented - **Consideration**: Helpful for those frustrated by trying to "fix" thoughts
For Neurodivergent Clients
Look for therapists who: - Understand ADHD/autism beyond stereotypes - Adapt session length or structure as needed - Don't pathologize stimming or other traits - Focus on strengths, not just deficits - Are open to creative approaches
Questions to Ask
- What's your approach to therapy?
- How do you adapt for neurodivergent clients?
- How will we know if it's working?
- What does a typical session look like?
It's Okay to Try Different Approaches
Finding the right therapy is a process. If something isn't working after giving it a fair try, it's okay to explore other options.