Therapeutic Approaches
FAMILY SYSTEMS
Clients present to therapy with a wide variety of issues that they do not understand. Gaining insight into our beginnings, and in particular our early childhood and teenage experiences, sheds light on how we relate to others in our adult relationships.
Humans exist in the confines of relationships. The first and most influential relationships we have are with our family of origin. It is here that we learn how to communicate, process emotions, and get needs met.
Elemental Health’s family systems group focuses on: attachment styles created by the bond formed with our primary caregiver, the typical roles of children in the family, family conflict resolution style, values learned, and emotional expression. Approaching therapy from the standpoint of learning why we do what we do allows for healing and growth to take place.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective form of therapy that interconnects emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. It’s based on the principle that our thoughts significantly influence our emotional and behavioral responses. For instance, persistent negative thoughts can lead to distressing emotions and unhelpful behaviors. CBT works by identifying and modifying these thought patterns, fostering positive changes in emotions and behaviors.
At Elemental Health, our CBT approach is tailored to each individual, addressing a range of mental health disorders. Research supports the efficacy of CBT, with studies showing significant improvements in various conditions. Our sessions involve collaboratively identifying negative thought patterns, understanding their impact, and developing strategies to challenge and change them.
While CBT has a structured approach, it’s adaptable to meet your unique needs and circumstances. Our therapists work with you to create a supportive, confidential environment, encouraging personal growth and resilience.
If you’re experiencing emotional challenges or behavioral issues, CBT at Elemental Health might be the right approach for you. Contact us to learn more or to schedule a consultation. Together, we can work towards achieving your mental health goals.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a therapeutic modality with a strong focus on empowering patients to live rich, fulfilling lives. ACT focuses less on symptom reduction and more on how to endure distressing thoughts and emotions while still pursuing a values-driven life. Through ACT, patients will be encouraged to accept all of their emotions, recognize that they are more than just their negative thoughts, and identify ways to pursue the things that are most important to them: right here, right now.
Accompanying discussions on the ACT model, patients will engage in activities and discussions designed to increase their self-compassion. Patients will learn the benefits of self-compassion, explore how to integrate self-care and compassionate self-talk into their lives, and allow themselves to receive the kind of love that they so often extend to others.
art therapy
What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a discipline within the context of psychotherapy that focuses on the creative process as the primary form of communication. Like traditional verbal therapy, we work within a therapeutic relationship to assist in achieving goals related to your reasons for being in therapy. Unlike traditional therapy, art therapists are specifically trained in psychological theory that informs treatment within the context of the creative process. Art therapy is appropriate for all ages and being an artist or even having an interest in art is not a factor. The process of art therapy improves emotional regulation, decreases anxiety, increases distress tolerance and promotes self-discovery.
What Art Therapy is not?
Art therapy was not created for artists. Art therapy can help anyone. Art therapy is a discipline, not a modality. Art therapy often focuses more on the process rather than the product produced. Creating imagery can increase objectivity around an issue or problem. The work created in art therapy provides another lens to view what you may be experiencing.
How is an Art Therapist trained?
A professional art therapist holds a master’s degree in art therapy from an accredited program and is board certified by the American Art Therapy Association. Art therapists are trained in both art and therapy. They are knowledgeable about human development, psychological theory, clinical practice, multicultural and artistic traditions, and the healing potential of art.
What to expect with Group Art Therapy at Elemental Health?
Sometimes we cannot find words to describe what we are experiencing. Group art therapy at Elemental Health provides specific art materials and art therapy directives to assist you in gaining insight around the problem or issue that brought you to treatment. The creative process and subsequent art product can help provide a “picture” of what may be inhibiting growth or change. The very act of creating promotes change and resilience as it requires doing, not just thinking or considering. As you move through sessions, the understanding of the object or art product becomes a reflection of what you are experiencing. This process typically improves insight and creates a greater understanding of what may be needed to achieve what you aspire to be.
Visit the American Art Therapy Association for more information: https://arttherapy.org/