Quick Results, Lasting Benefits

There has been a quiet revolution going on in the field of psychotherapy. Traditional psychoanalytical and client centered methods have been giving way to a new PsychoTechnology of the mind, cognitive/behavioral psychology.

Cognitive/behavioral methods have been growing rapidly in popularity since their inception in the 1950's and many experts believe this will be the predominant approach to counseling by the end of the decade. This approach is probably quite different than what most people think counseling is about. It is not primarily about gaining insight into the presumed childhood origins of problems, although this sometimes can be useful. It is not just about venting feelings or talking about your problems. Rather, cognitive/behavioral therapy focuses on practical results. The main issue is not discovering how you got to be the way you are, but rather, helping you to make practical changes now. This approach has several distinct advantages over traditional methods:

Results-oriented - It will help you define your goals, plan a strategy for accomplishing those goals and monitor your progress towards them.

Short-term - with most clients, the goals of therapy can accomplished relatively quickly, often within five to twenty sessions. Of course, this depends on the nature of the problem, but cognitive/behavioral methods usually produce rapid results.

Self-help oriented - this is an educationally based approach which focuses on helping you to develop self-management skills. The therapist is a coach or teacher who helps you learn how to run yourself and your life better. You will acquire many new tools and find new solutions, not just rehash the past.

Cost-effective - due to the short term, self-help, results orientation, the total investment you make in counseling is often quite low.

Client-oriented- your emotional well being is the primary concern. This is expressed in using the most scientifically advanced PsychoTechnology in a caring, ethical way to help you get the most out of your counseling experience.

In looking for a therapist, don't be shy about asking what theory and methods the counselor uses, their credentials and training, their experience with your type of problem, their specific plans for addressing it and the expected length and prognosis of treatment. There are many factors that contribute to the success of therapy, so it pays to "shop around". If you aren't satisfied with your progress, discuss your concerns openly with your therapist. If you still aren't satisfied, don't give up on the idea of counseling, just find another therapist. To find a cognitive/behaviorally oriented therapist in your area, call the Institute for Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy at 800.323.4738 or visit their web site (http://www.rebt.org). For help with substance abuse call SMART Recovery at 440.951.5357 or check out their web site (http://www.smartrecovery.org). Another idea is to call your local psychological association.