Psychological Therapies Notes

Chapter 15: Psychological Therapies

Learning Objectives
  • 15.1: Historical perspective of treatment for psychological disorders.
  • 15.2: Elements of Freud’s psychoanalysis and contemporary psychodynamic approaches.
  • 15.3: Key components of humanistic therapies: person-centered therapy and Gestalt therapy.
  • 15.4: Role of classical and operant conditioning in behavior therapy.
  • 15.5: Goals and elements of cognitive and cognitive-behavioral therapies.
  • 15.6-15.7: Comparative analysis of various forms of group therapy, their advantages and disadvantages.
  • 15.8: Effectiveness of psychotherapy based on research findings.
  • 15.9: Factors influencing therapy effectiveness.
  • 15.10: Categories of drugs used to treat psychological disorders.
  • 15.11: Understanding electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and psychosurgery.
  • 15.12: Overview of newer technologies in treating psychological disorders.
  • 15.13: Benefits of physical exercise and nature on mental health.
  • 15.14: Strategies to reduce stigma associated with mental illness.
15.1 Treatment of Psychological Disorders: History
  • Pre-1700s: Mental illness viewed as demonic possession; treatments were severe and harmful.
  • Philippe Pinel: Advocated for humane treatment and early methods of moral treatment.
  • Types of Therapy:
    • Psychotherapy: Involves talking to a professional.
    • Insight Therapies: Focus on understanding behavior.
    • Action Therapy: Targets changing behavior directly.
    • Biomedical Therapy: Involves medical approaches to alleviate symptoms.
    • Eclectic Approaches: Combining different therapeutic methods.
15.2 Freud’s Psychoanalysis
  • Psychoanalysis: Uncovering unconscious conflicts via methods such as dream interpretation, free association, and working through resistance/transference.
  • Modern psychodynamic therapy: More directive and client-centered; focuses on interpersonal relationships (e.g., Interpersonal Psychotherapy for depression).
15.3 Humanistic Therapies

  • Person-centered therapy (Carl Rogers):

    • Nondirective approach, emphasizing client’s self-discovery.
    • Key elements: Authenticity, unconditional positive regard, empathy, and reflection of feelings.

  • Gestalt Therapy (Fritz Perls):

    • Directive and focused on self-awareness through experiential techniques like role-play.
    • Addresses unresolved issues through the “empty chair” technique.
15.4 Behavior Therapies
  • Behavior Therapy: Focuses on altering behavior using classical and operant conditioning principles.
  • Techniques:
    • Systematic Desensitization: Gradual exposure to anxiety-inducing stimuli paired with relaxation techniques.
    • Exposure Techniques: Includes in vivo, imaginal, and flooding methods.
    • Aversion Therapy: Uses negative stimuli to reduce undesirable behaviors.
    • Reinforcement Strategies: Such as token economies and contingency contracts.
15.5 Cognitive Therapies
  • Cognitive Therapy: Aims to recognize and rectify cognitive distortions.
    • Arbitrary inference, selective thinking, overgeneralization: Common distortions.
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Combines cognitive restructuring with behavior modification.
  • Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT): A direct challenge to irrational beliefs.
15.6-15.7 Group Therapies
  • Group Therapy: Clients with similar issues meet with a therapist.
    • Family Therapy: Addresses dysfunctional family dynamics.
    • Self-help Groups: Peer-led discussions without formal therapeutic guidance.
    • Advantages: Cost-effective, social support; Disadvantages: Less personal attention, potential for discomfort in sharing.
15.8-15.9 Effectiveness of Psychotherapy
  • Effectiveness Studies: Research indicates psychotherapy is generally effective; longer treatment leads to greater improvements. No single method is universally effective; integration is crucial.
15.10 Psychopharmacology
  • Types of Medication:
    • Antipsychotics: Used for schizophrenia (e.g., clozapine).
    • Antidepressants: Include SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine), mood stabilizers (e.g., lithium).
    • Antianxiety: Benzodiazepines for anxiety management.
  • Combined Therapy: Utilizing both psychotherapy and medications for enhanced outcomes.
15.11 Electroconvulsive Therapy and Psychosurgery
  • ECT: Effective for severe depression; involves inducing seizures for therapeutic effects.
  • Psychosurgery: Used as a last resort in severe psychiatric disorders; techniques have evolved significantly over the years.
15.12 Emerging Treatment Technologies
  • New Technologies: NIBS, rTMS, tDCS, and DBS are being explored for treatment efficacy.
15.13 Lifestyle Factors for Mental Health
  • Regular Exercise: Aids in resilience and mental health; recommendations include aerobic and strength training.
  • Nature Exposure: Enhances mood, attention, and cognitive function.
15.14 Reducing Stigma
  • Strategies: Strengthening awareness and providing education through organizations and social media campaigns.
    • Utilize hashtags and resources from organizations like NAMI.