Other therapies

Although there are four key categories into which psychological therapies generally fall, there are also a number of other specific therapies too. 

› Compassion-focused therapy

Compassion-focused therapy (CFT) looks to help those who struggle with shame and self-criticism. Often these can be the driving forces behind other mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. CFT looks at helping you consciously develop your ability to be more compassionate towards both yourself and others.

› Dance therapy

Dance movement therapy (often referred to as dance therapy) uses physical movement to communicate and work through problems. This approach helps to build self-confidence, positive body image and communication skills. 

› Equine therapy

Equine therapy is a form of animal assisted therapy that uses horses to help people build confidence and develop a greater understanding of their own behaviour. Challenges are set by a therapist and normally require the individual to work with the horse in a way that challenges their way of thinking.

› Eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is a form of psychotherapy that was developed in the 1980s by American clinical psychologist Dr Francine Shapiro. EMDR is used to treat psychological traumas, such as war experiences, natural disasters, road accidents, rape and assault.

› Family/Systemic therapy

Family Therapy, also known as Systemic Therapy, is an approach that works with families and those in close relationships, regardless of whether they are blood related or not, to foster change. Changes are viewed in terms of the systems of interaction between each person in the family.

› Group therapy

This type of therapy takes place with a group of people going through similar difficulties and is facilitated by one or more therapists. Group therapy can offer emotional support and help develop interpersonal skills.

› Integrative

Integrative counselling means drawing on and blending specific types of therapies. This approach is not linked to one particular type of therapy as those practising integrative counselling do not believe that only one approach works for each client in all situations.

› Interpersonal therapy

With a focus on interpersonal relationships, this therapy examines the way we relate and how this impacts our mental well-being. The core belief of interpersonal therapy is that psychological symptoms are often a response to the difficulties we have interacting with others - and when these interactions are improved, so are the psychological symptoms.

› Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a technique that originated from Buddhist meditation that helps people focus on the present to gain greater awareness of their emotions and improve general well-being. Mindfulness meditation and mindfulness-based therapies are becoming popular tools to help those with depression and anxiety.

› Play therapy

While adults can express their troubling thoughts and feelings through talking therapies, children and young people may find it difficult to put their emotions into words. Play therapy is used to help children communicate their worries at their own level and their own pace, while a play therapist offers valuable support and guidance. The aim of play therapy is to increase self-esteem and confidence, and teach children new patterns of thinking and behaviour that makes them more resilient in everyday life.

› Psychosexual therapy

Psychosexual therapy, known as PST, is a treatment by a qualified practitioner which addresses a sexual dysfunction or emotional block within a relationship. PST is a behavioural programme which openly explores and discusses the sexual problem and looks at emotional blocks for the couple.  

› Psychodrama

Using the medium of drama combined with group dynamics and role theory, psychodrama's aim is to help clients gain a new perspective through better understanding of their own roles in life. This approach offers a safe space for clients to explore their past, present or future. As clients gain a unique perspective, they are free to explore new solutions to challenges they’re facing.

› Schema therapy

Schema therapy (also referred to as schema-focused cognitive therapy) aims to change negative patterns or beliefs that people have lived with for a long time. The longstanding patterns or themes are called ‘schemas’ within schema therapy.