Introduction. Psychotherapy in Treatment for Depression
Psychotherapy, plays a pivotal role in treatment for depression. The term “Psychotherapy” itself derives from Ancient Greek “psyche” (meaning “breath; spirit; soul”) and “therapeia” (“healing; medical treatment”) which can be translated as “treatment of the soul,” highlighting its profound impact on mental health.
The psychotherapy can be provided by trained psychotherapists, such as psychologists, psychiatrists or physicians educated in its use. One of the core principles of psychotherapy is the establishment of a strong therapeutic relationship. The therapist delves into the patient’s inner world, providing empathetic support and non-judgmental feedback. This approach empowers patients to explore their thoughts and emotions freely, fostering self-understanding and self-acceptance.
Psychotherapeutic Setting in Treatment for Depression
Psychotherapy offers flexibility, with options ranging from outpatient, day clinics, to inpatient care. In today’s digital age, video-based psychotherapy is also available, making treatment accessible even for those facing geographical barriers.
Psychotherapy should be tailored to address the severity of depression, patients living circumstances and their preferences. The choice of therapy type and therapist-patient compatibility are pivotal in determining its effectiveness. Patients must feel both emotionally supported and confident in their therapist’s expertise.
The journey to psychotherapy begins with an initial consultation in a therapist’s practice. Here, patients can discuss their concerns and needs, laying the foundation for a personalized treatment plan.
The duration of psychotherapy varies depending on the individual’s needs and the chosen therapeutic approach. It ranges from shorter-term interventions, such as acute treatment (up to 12 hours), to more extended periods, like long-term therapy (up to 300 hours).
Psychotherapeutic Approaches in Treatment for Depression
Psychotherapy encompasses diverse therapeutic methods, adhering to two major psychotherapy schools: the behaviourism and the psychodynamic psychotherapy.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), is the most frequently therapeutic method used in treatment for depression. CBT therapists consider behaviour as encompassing not only observable actions but also thoughts, emotions, and physical processes. They believe that behaviours are learned and can be modified, leading to the adoption of more constructive patterns.
In CBT, patients collaborate with therapists to dissect specific problematic situations. Together, they examine why the patient reacts or feels in a certain way. These discussions incorporate the patient’s life history and current circumstances. They work together to develop and test potential solutions. The patients then evaluate these strategies in their daily life, sharing feedback in subsequent sessions. The therapeutic relationship is one of collaboration and equality, fostering the exploration of problematic behaviours and the exploration of new ones.
CBT also includes elements like psychoeducation (providing information about the condition and its treatment), exposure to feared situations (exposure therapy), and targeted skill-building (e.g., social skills, stress management, and relaxation techniques). CBT sessions usually occur weekly, providing consistent support and guidance.
Treatment for Depression with Psychoanalysis
Psychoanalysis the first method of psychotherapy used in treatment for depression, was developed by Sigmund Freud at the end of the 19th century. Freud’s psychoanalytical theory assumes that unconscious conflicts and past experiences, particularly from childhood, are the root cause of mental illnesses.
Psychoanalysis delves deeply into patient’s unconscious. The therapist assists patients in recognizing these unconscious conflicts and their impact on the present life. Patients lie on a couch during sessions, without eye contact with the therapist, allowing them to focus on their thoughts, emotions, and inner imagery. Analytic psychotherapy typically spans multiple sessions per week and is a long-term endeavour.
Today the classical psychoanalysis is rarely used being replaced by its modifications such as analytical psychotherapy first used by C.G. Jung or various forms of so-called in-depth psychotherapy. This psychotherapy methods “lifted” the patient to the role of equality, abandoned the sofa and enhanced the active involvement of the psychotherapist.
In-depth Psychotherapy in Treatment for Depression
This type of therapy, rooted in psychoanalysis, differs from traditional psychoanalysis in duration, therapeutic concepts, and objectives. In-depth psychotherapy in treatment for depression concentrates on current, active psychological conflicts.
By revisiting past experiences and behavioral patterns, patients gain insights into their problems. Therapists also help patients activate latent, unconscious abilities to address current difficulties. In contrast to traditional psychoanalysis, in-depth psychotherapy aims to limit regressive processes, such as reverting to earlier stages of personality development.
Systemic or Family Psychotherapy
Systemic, called also family psychotherapy, considers the relationships within a family when addressing current mental health conditions. It views patient’s problems not just at the individual level but within the entire family or social system. This therapy can take the form of family therapy, couples therapy, or individual therapy.
Systemic therapy aims to bolster the autonomy and self-worth of each family member. It also seeks to improve communication and interaction between family members while identifying and modifying detrimental relationship patterns.
Psychotherapy in Treatment for Depression. Summary
Psychotherapy is a vital component in therapy for depression. It offers a safe space for individuals to explore and heal their “inner selves”. The success of psychotherapy hinges on the therapeutic alliance, therapist competence, and the alignment of therapy with the patient’s needs and preferences.
Each psychotherapy approach has its unique perspective and techniques. Whether it’s CBT, psychoanalysis, in-deep psychotherapy, or systemic therapy, each method contributes to the diverse toolbox of options available to individuals seeking help for depression.
Psychotherapy plays a crucial role in promoting mental well-being helping individuals to alleviate suffering, enhance self-understanding, foster personal growth. It is a patient’s journey towards self-discovery and recovery, providing hope and leading to healthier life of those struggling with depression.