Treatment
Psychotherapy
A major option for many mental disorders is psychotherapy. There are
several main types. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is widely used
and is based on modifying the patterns of thought and behavior associated
with a particular disorder. Psychoanalysis, addressing underlying psychic
conflicts and defenses, has been a dominant school of psychotherapy
and is still in use. Systemic therapy or family therapy is sometimes
used, addressing a network of significant others as well as an individual.
Some psychotherapies are based on a humanistic approach. There are a
number of specific therapies used for particular disorders, which may
be offshoots or hybrids of the above types. Mental health professionals
often employ an eclectic or integrative approach. Much may depend on
the therapeutic relationship, and there may be problems with trust,
confidentiality and engagement.
