Having made the decision to begin therapy, the next step is choosing a therapist whose approach aligns with your needs. Therapy is a deeply personal experience and the right therapist can make all the difference. While the modality – the specific method or approach used by the therapist – is a key and often misunderstood factor, the therapeutic relationship is just as critical to achieving lasting success. Both, therefore, need to be considered carefully.
Understanding Therapy Modalities
A therapy modality refers to the specific type of approach a therapist uses to help their clients. Each modality is grounded in a particular theoretical framework or philosophy, which the therapist will have trained in. Interestingly, though, clients are often unaware of these differences, or even that such modalities exist, so it is important to be aware of it when considering the right therapist for you. It also means that, if you’ve tried therapy before and have not found it useful, it may be that you haven’t found the right modality for you yet.
Some of the most common modalities include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a structured, goal-oriented approach, often used by the NHS, that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns.
- Psychodynamic Therapy: Based on the principles of psychoanalysis, psychodynamic therapy explores unconscious thoughts and early-life experiences to uncover deep-seated emotions and patterns.
- Person-Centred or Humanistic Therapy: This modality focuses on personal growth and emphasises the therapeutic relationship over specific techniques, allowing clients to find the resources that they need to move forward.
- Solution-Focused Therapy: Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) is a therapeutic approach that is goal-directed, brief, and future-focused, finding solutions to current problems rather than delving into the past or analysing the root causes of issues.
Why Modality Matters
Choosing the right modality is crucial because everyone is unique and what people want or expect from therapy will differ. If you are unsure which approach is most appropriate for you, consider looking for therapists who work with an integrative or pluralistic approach, as I do. One of the advantages of integrative therapy is that it can combine elements of various modalities based on clients’ individual needs. This flexibility allows therapists to tailor their approach to best support each client’s goals, whether it’s overcoming anxiety, improving self-esteem, or navigating relationship issues. By taking an integrative approach, therapists can shift techniques, as needed, to ensure that clients receive the most effective support for their evolving needs.
The Therapeutic Relationship: More Than Just Modality
While the modality you choose is important, it’s crucial to remember that the therapeutic relationship is actually far more important (Asay and Lambert, 1999). A strong relationship with your therapist creates a safe, supportive space from which you can explore difficult emotions and experiences, without fear of judgment. A therapist’s ability to listen empathetically, build trust, and create a nonjudgmental environment is just as vital as the therapeutic approaches they use. A positive therapeutic relationship allows you to feel heard, understood, and supported, all of which are key components of effective therapy.
When selecting a therapist, consider how comfortable you feel during your initial interactions. Are they empathetic and respectful? Do you feel like they are invested in understanding you and your struggles? If the answer is ‘yes,’ this is a good starting point.
How to Choose the Right Modality and Therapist for You
Once you’ve decided to make the first step and contact a therapist, here are some key factors to consider:
1. Reflect on Your Needs
Think about what you’re hoping to achieve and use this to inform your search, considering the modality or modalities that you think you’d like to work with.
2. Explore the Therapist’s Approach
During an initial consultation, ask the therapist about their approach to therapy. A good therapist will be happy to explain their preferred modalities and how they tailor treatment to each client. Feel free to ask what to expect from the process of therapy.
3. Trust Your Instincts
How do you feel after speaking to the therapist for the first time? If you feel heard and believe that you could form a good therapeutic relationship with this person, that’s a good start.
If you try therapy and it’s not working for you, perhaps the therapist isn’t the right fit or you could consider finding a therapist who works with a different approach. If you’re unsure where to start, perhaps consider looking for a therapist who works with an integrative approach, as this allows for flexibility in treatment and ensures that the therapist can tailor their approach to meet your unique needs.
Ultimately, the goal of therapy is to help you become the best version of yourself, and choosing the right modality and the right person will set you on the path towards lasting change.
