There are many of types of psychotherapy, each is a blend of theories, the personality and training of the therapist, and the client's need. Generally, psychotherapy works as a conversation between the clinician and client. The conversation, at times, can be issue driven, task centered, cognitively reframed, emotionally charged, and yet filled with calm silence at other times.
The conversation always begins with the care and guidance of a trained professional. As the client becomes comfortable in the therapeutic environment, the conversation will become client led. During this time the clinician will listen, observe, and encourage growth. The process will continue through the client growth and acceptance of new skills to tackle life's issues.
At Phoenix we utilize the theories of Bowlby, Erikson, Maslow, Kohlberg, and a few others. We believe that we must teach our clients about their diagnosis, how their lives are intertwined in theories, what those theories are, and how to move forward. We believe that type of knowledge can help the client find insight and a structure within the chaos in their lives. This in turn gives them permission to take the journey they are looking for in their lives. Understanding the "why" will typically make room for the forgiveness of self.