Understanding the different types of psychological therapy can help you make informed decisions about your mental health. At PLE Health, we provide a wide range of evidence-based therapies for adults, young people and children, across clinical, insurance, and medico-legal settings.
This guide explains the most common therapies, how they work and what they can help with, so you can choose the approach that best fits your needs.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a structured, evidence-based therapy focused on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. It is goal-oriented, present-focused, and highly effective for:
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression
- Stress management
- Trauma-related symptoms
CBT helps individuals identify unhelpful thinking patterns and develop practical coping strategies. For those with trauma, CBT can be integrated with Trauma-Focused CBT for safe, trauma-informed care.
Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)
Trauma-Focused CBT is a specialised adaptation of CBT for individuals who have experienced traumatic events. It focuses on:
- Stabilisation and safety
- Understanding trauma responses
- Gradual, supported processing of traumatic memories
- Reducing avoidance and restoring a sense of control
TF-CBT is especially relevant for trauma-related conditions in clinical, insurance, and medico-legal contexts.
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is a therapy primarily used for trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It helps the brain process traumatic memories by combining guided eye movements with cognitive and emotional processing. EMDR can reduce distress, flashbacks, and avoidance behaviours while promoting adaptive coping.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT focuses on accepting difficult thoughts and feelings rather than trying to change them, while committing to values-based actions. It is effective for:
- Anxiety and depression
- Chronic pain
- Stress management
- Life transitions
ACT helps build psychological flexibility and resilience.
Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)
IPT focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and social functioning to reduce psychological distress. It is commonly used for:
- Depression
- Bereavement
- Life transitions
- Relationship difficulties
IPT typically lasts 12–16 sessions and is highly structured.
Psychosexual Therapy
Psychosexual therapy addresses difficulties with sexual function, intimacy, or sexual trauma. It supports clients in:
- Improving sexual confidence
- Managing sexual dysfunction
- Recovering from sexual trauma or abuse
Therapists work sensitively and confidentially to provide safe guidance and strategies.
Mindfulness and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Mindfulness and MBCT combine traditional CBT techniques with mindfulness practices to improve attention, self-awareness, and emotional regulation. They are especially helpful for:
- Preventing relapse of depression
- Managing anxiety
- Reducing stress
- Enhancing overall wellbeing
Short-Term Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (STPP)
STPP explores underlying emotional conflicts and past experiences that influence current behaviour. It is particularly effective for:
- Relationship difficulties
- Emotional regulation challenges
- Repetitive patterns of behaviour
STPP typically lasts a set number of sessions and focuses on insight and emotional growth.
Neurorehabilitation and Neurodiversity Assessments
PLE Health also provides therapy for cognitive or neurodevelopmental challenges, including:
- Neurorehabilitation after injury or illness
- Assessments for ADHD and ASD
- Support for long-term cognitive or neurological conditions
These approaches combine assessment, therapy, and practical strategies for everyday functioning.
Pain Management and Bereavement Counselling
We offer specialist therapies to manage chronic pain or cope with grief and loss. These therapies focus on:
- Developing coping strategies
- Improving quality of life
- Emotional support and practical guidance
Conclusion
Understanding the different types of therapy can help you make informed choices about your mental health. At PLE Health, our experienced clinicians provide personalised, evidence-based treatments tailored to your needs, whether you are seeking CBT, EMDR, TF-CBT, ACT, or other specialised therapies.
Contact PLE Health today to discuss your treatment options and start your journey to recovery.