Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Focus on identifying and modifying patterns of thought, emotion and behavior. Structured, with exercises between sessions. Strong evidence for anxiety, depression, OCD and phobias.
DEFINITION
What is therapy: the definition
Psychotherapy — or therapy, in common use — is a structured process conducted by a licensed professional (a psychologist registered with the CRP) aimed at helping people understand emotions, thoughts and behaviors, and build concrete changes in how they live.
Unlike a conversation with a friend, mentor or coach, therapy has method (a recognized approach), professional confidentiality (protected by law) and agreed objectives between client and therapist. Sessions have agreed duration and frequency, and what is discussed there is confidential.
Therapy is not for people who are "crazy" — it is a mental health resource used by people who want to deal better with emotions, relationships and decisions. It can happen in person or online, individually or in groups.
APPROACHES
The main types of therapy
Psychology has several approaches, each with different focus and method. All have scientific evidence. The choice depends on what you want to work on, your history and your preference.
Studies of the unconscious and dreams
Theoretical reference from the psychoanalytic tradition (Freud, Jung, Winnicott) that helps interpret symbolism, relationship patterns and the imagery that arises in dreams. It is not a clinical approach I apply, but it is part of the repertoire that informs readings and conversations in session.
EMDR
Reprocessing of traumatic memories via bilateral stimulation. 8-phase protocol. Strong evidence for PTSD and trauma.
Brainspotting
Visual focus to access deep layers of emotional processing. Useful for content that words do not reach.
Schema Therapy
Integrates CBT with a focus on early emotional schemas. Works on patterns formed in childhood. Good for chronic relationship patterns and self-criticism.
Humanistic Approach
Focus on self-knowledge, authenticity and personal growth. Includes Gestalt therapy and Person-Centered Approach.
Systemic / Family Therapy
Looks at the individual within systems (family, couple, group). Useful for relationship and family pattern issues.
Somatic Therapy
Works the body and the nervous system. Polyvagal Theory, Sensorimotor, Somatic Experiencing. Good for PTSD and physical symptoms.
HOW IT WORKS
How it works in practice
In general terms, the therapeutic process has three phases:
1. Assessment and initial listening
The first sessions are dedicated to understanding what brings you to therapy, your history, symptoms, life context. It is a space where you speak and the therapist listens with method.
2. Therapeutic work
After the assessment, the actual work begins. Depending on the approach, it may involve structured techniques (CBT), memory reprocessing (EMDR), nervous system regulation (somatic, Brainspotting), or guided pattern exploration (Schema Therapy).
3. Closure and follow-up
When goals are achieved or the person feels they have enough tools, the process enters a closing phase. It may include biweekly or monthly maintenance sessions, or termination with the possibility of return.
WHEN TO SEEK IT
Signs that therapy is worth considering
Therapy is not just for crises. You can seek it when:
- Constant anxiety or worry for more than two weeks
- Insomnia, irritability, difficulty concentrating
- Persistent sadness or loss of interest
- Repeating relationship problems
- Intrusive memories or flashbacks
- Physical symptoms with no medical cause (chronic pain, fatigue)
- Complicated grief, separations, difficult transitions
- Important decisions you do not know how to handle alone
You do not need to be in extreme distress. The best moment to start is when you feel something needs attention.
DISTINCTIONS
What therapy is not
To avoid confusion:
- It is not coaching. Coaching works on performance and goals; therapy works on distress and mental health. Professionals and methods are different.
- It is not just psychoanalysis. Psychoanalysis is one specific approach; there are several others within psychology.
- It is not family constellation, tarot, reiki. These practices can be complementary, but they are not psychotherapy and do not replace psychological treatment.
- It is not a friend chat. As welcoming as a friendship may be, therapy has method, confidentiality and purpose.
FREQUENT QUESTIONS
About what therapy is
What exactly is therapy?
Therapy is a structured process between client and qualified professional that helps understand emotions, thoughts and behaviors, and build concrete changes. It is not conversation with a friend or coaching: it has method, professional confidentiality protected by law, and agreed objectives.
What is the difference between psychology and psychoanalysis?
Psychology is the science that studies behavior and mind, with over a century of experimental research. Psychoanalysis is one specific approach, founded by Freud in the early twentieth century, that works with the unconscious, dreams, and free association. It inspired part of psychological thought, but it is neither the only nor the most practiced today — CBT, EMDR, Brainspotting, systemic therapy and humanistic therapy are other widely practiced schools.
Who can do therapy?
Anyone dealing with persistent emotional suffering, recurring patterns, difficult decisions, symptoms such as anxiety, depression, insomnia or relationship and identity issues. It is also valid for those who want self-knowledge and development.
When should I see a therapist?
When something interferes with your daily life for more than two weeks: constant anxiety, insomnia, irritability, difficulty concentrating, persistent sadness, relationship problems, or physical symptoms without apparent medical cause. You don't need to be in crisis.
Does therapy work for people without a diagnosis?
Yes. Therapy does not require a psychiatric diagnosis. It can be sought for self-knowledge, life transitions, decision-making, improving relationships, or personal development. The criterion is well-being, not the ICD.
Does therapy replace medication?
It does not replace, and it is not the goal. In clinical conditions such as moderate depression, generalized anxiety, PTSD or bipolar disorder, combined treatment of psychotherapy + psychotropic medication has strong scientific evidence. The psychologist evaluates together with the psychiatrist.
What professionals are qualified to do therapy?
The psychologist registered with the CRP (Regional Council of Psychology). In clinical conditions, the psychiatrist (physician with CRM and RQE) can also conduct psychotherapy or associate medication. Be wary of those who offer therapy without professional registration.