THE PROCESS OF THERAPY

What really happens in therapy? Research shows one factor consistent across the many treatment modalities and theoretical frameworks that leads to change: the therapeutic relationship.

Regardless of modality used, in session, the therapeutic relationship is the glue and spark for therapy. Genuine human connection is formed when one person is authentically vulnerable with another. At CAL, clients find their vulnerability met with compassion and acceptance; this leads to healing.

In addition to emphasis on the therapeutic relationship, some modalities used by therapists at CAL include:

Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT): Emphasizes exploring and processing emotions to facilitate emotional regulation and personal growth.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on identifying and changing thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to psychological distress.
Person-Centered Therapy: Centers on providing a non-judgmental and empathetic environment for clients to explore their feelings and experiences.
Existential/Humanistic Psychotherapy: Explores the meaning of life and personal existence, emphasizing individual choice and responsibility.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Aims to increase psychological flexibility by accepting one's thoughts and feelings and committing to values-driven actions.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness and acceptance strategies to manage emotions and improve interpersonal effectiveness.
Family Systems: Focuses on understanding and addressing relational dynamics within families.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Utilizes bilateral stimulation to process traumatic memories and reduce their emotional impact.
Psychodynamic Psychotherapy: Examines unconscious processes and unresolved conflicts that may influence current thoughts and behaviors.
Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Incorporates mindfulness practices to enhance self-awareness and promote well-being.

Techniques and frameworks are often not explicitly stated in session. However, clients can rest assured that interventions and process are rooted in theory and experience true to the heart of psychotherapy.