Psychotherapy and Psychological Disorders

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions from the lecture on Psychotherapy and Psychological Disorders, aiding in understanding and memorization for the upcoming exam.

Psychotherapy

A treatment method involving a helping relationship between a therapist and a client to address psychological issues.

Psychological disorders

A class of disorders marked by significant impairment in daily functioning, often characterized by abnormal thoughts, feelings, or behaviors.

Insight therapies

Therapies that involve verbal interactions aimed at enhancing self-knowledge and promoting healthy personality changes.

Behavior therapies

Therapies that focus on changing maladaptive behaviors through the application of learning principles.

Biomedical therapies

Physiological interventions intended to reduce symptoms associated with psychological disorders.

Transference

A phenomenon where clients project feelings about important relationships onto their therapists.

Client-centered therapy

A humanistic therapy developed by Carl Rogers that focuses on creating a supportive emotional climate for clients.

Genuineness

A key element in client-centered therapy, where the therapist is authentic and open.

Unconditional positive regard

The acceptance and support of a person regardless of what they say or do in therapy.

Empathy

The ability to understand and share the feelings of clients, crucial for a therapeutic alliance.

Systematic desensitization

A behavior therapy technique used to reduce anxiety by gradually exposing clients to feared stimuli.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)

A treatment that combines behavioral and cognitive techniques to change thought patterns and behaviors.

Psychoanalysis

A therapeutic approach developed by Sigmund Freud focused on uncovering unconscious conflicts.

Cognitive errors

Mistakes in reasoning or logic that contribute to negative thinking, often addressed in cognitive therapy.

Clinical psychologist

A psychologist with a doctoral degree who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders.

Psychiatrist

A medical doctor specializing in the treatment of psychological disorders, often using medication.

Psychological testing

Assessment tools used by psychologists to evaluate cognitive and emotional functioning.

Antidepressants

Medications used to treat mood disorders, particularly major depressive disorder.

Antianxiety drugs

Medications prescribed to manage anxiety symptoms.

Cognitive distortions

Biased perspectives on situations that can lead to negative emotions and dysfunctional behavior.

Cultural sensitivity

Awareness and respect for the cultural differences that can affect therapeutic relationships.

Eclectic approach

A therapeutic approach that combines elements from various therapies to tailor treatment to the individual client's needs.

Barriers to treatment

Obstacles that prevent individuals from seeking or receiving therapy, such as stigma and lack of insurance.

Therapeutic alliance

The collaborative relationship between therapist and client that facilitates effective therapy.

Presence

A therapist's ability to be fully present and engaged in the therapeutic relationship.

Attunement

The process of being in sync with another person's emotional state, allowing for deeper connection.

Resonance

The connection achieved when two individuals' emotional and cognitive states align.

Mood disorders

A category of mental health issues characterized by significant disruptions in a person's emotional state.

Anxiety disorders

A group of disorders characterized by excessive fear or anxiety that interferes with daily functioning.

Bipolar disorder

A mood disorder characterized by alternating periods of mania and depression.

Psychosocial factors

External environmental and social influences that impact mental health and therapy effectiveness.

Maladaptive behaviors

Responses or behaviors that are counterproductive or inhibit an individual's functioning.