Author Archives: Shervan K Shahhian, LIBERTY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION, The Most Comprehensive Online Library Regarding Mental Health, Psychology and Parapsychology in the World.

What is Trauma-informed feminist therapy?

Trauma-informed feminist therapy is an approach to therapy that combines principles from trauma-informed care and feminist theory. It recognizes the impact of trauma on individuals, particularly the ways in which trauma intersects with gender, power dynamics, and social inequality.

In trauma-informed feminist therapy, the therapist acknowledges the pervasive influence of trauma and works to create a safe and empowering therapeutic environment. This approach recognizes that many individuals, particularly women, may have experienced trauma resulting from various forms of gender-based violence, such as sexual assault, domestic violence, or institutional oppression.

Key principles of trauma-informed feminist therapy include:

Empowerment: The therapist aims to empower the client by recognizing and validating their experiences, helping them regain a sense of control, and fostering their autonomy and self-determination.

Intersectionality: The therapist acknowledges that individuals’ experiences of trauma are shaped by multiple intersecting identities, such as race, class, sexuality, and ability. They understand the importance of addressing these intersecting factors in therapy.

Safety and trust: Trauma-informed feminist therapy prioritizes creating a safe and nonjudgmental therapeutic space where the client feels heard, respected, and supported. Trust-building is crucial, as trauma survivors often struggle with trust due to past experiences of betrayal or violation.

Understanding power dynamics: The therapist recognizes the influence of power dynamics in the client’s life and in the therapeutic relationship. They actively work to challenge power imbalances, encourage collaborative decision-making, and foster a sense of agency for the client.

Social justice advocacy: Trauma-informed feminist therapy emphasizes the importance of addressing the broader socio-political context that contributes to trauma and inequality. Therapists may support clients in recognizing and challenging societal norms and systems that perpetuate trauma and oppression.

Culturally responsive approach: The therapist takes into account the client’s cultural background and context, understanding how cultural factors may shape their experiences of trauma and their healing process. This approach values cultural humility and respects the client’s individuality.

Overall, trauma-informed feminist therapy aims to help individuals heal from trauma while recognizing the social and systemic factors that contribute to their experiences. It seeks to empower clients, promote resilience, and foster social change.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy?

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is an evidence-based psychological treatment approach designed to help individuals, particularly children and adolescents, who have experienced traumatic events. It combines elements of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with trauma-specific interventions to address the emotional and psychological consequences of trauma.

TF-CBT aims to assist individuals in processing their traumatic experiences, reducing trauma-related symptoms, and promoting emotional healing. It follows a structured and phased approach, typically consisting of the following components:

Psychoeducation: This involves providing information about trauma and its effects, teaching individuals about common trauma reactions, and helping them understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Relaxation and coping skills: Individuals are taught relaxation techniques and coping strategies to manage anxiety, stress, and other overwhelming emotions associated with trauma.

Cognitive processing: This phase focuses on identifying and challenging maladaptive thoughts and beliefs related to the traumatic event. It helps individuals develop more adaptive ways of thinking and understanding their experiences.

Trauma narrative: Individuals are encouraged to gradually confront and process the details of their traumatic experiences in a safe and supportive environment. This may involve verbal or written expression of the trauma narrative.

Emotional regulation: This component aims to enhance individuals’ ability to manage and regulate their emotions effectively. They learn skills to identify, tolerate, and cope with distressing emotions associated with trauma.

Trauma-focused integration and consolidation: This final phase involves reviewing progress, reinforcing coping skills, and developing a plan for maintaining gains achieved during therapy.

TF-CBT is typically conducted by trained mental health professionals who work collaboratively with the individual and, if appropriate, their family members or caregivers. The therapy can be tailored to meet the specific needs and developmental level of the individual receiving treatment.

Research has shown that TF-CBT is effective in reducing trauma-related symptoms, improving overall functioning, and enhancing coping skills in children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced various types of trauma, such as physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, or witnessing violence.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is the Transtheoretical model (TTM or “stages of change”)?

The Transtheoretical Model (TTM), also known as the stages of change model, is a theoretical framework developed by psychologists James O. Prochaska and Carlo C. DiClemente in the late 1970s. It was originally proposed as a way to understand and explain the process of behavior change, particularly in the context of addictive behaviors like smoking cessation.

The TTM suggests that individuals progress through a series of stages when making changes in their behavior. These stages reflect different levels of readiness to change, and they include:

1. Precontemplation: In this stage, individuals have no intention or desire to change their behavior and may be unaware or in denial about any problems associated with it.
2. Contemplation: During the contemplation stage, individuals recognize that their behavior is problematic and consider the possibility of change. They may weigh the pros and cons but often feel ambivalent and may not be ready to take action.
3. Preparation: In the preparation stage, individuals are actively planning to change their behavior. They may set goals, gather information, and make specific plans for how to initiate the change.
4. Action: The action stage involves actively modifying one’s behavior and implementing the plans made during the preparation stage. This stage requires significant effort and commitment to sustaining the change.
5. Maintenance: Once individuals have successfully changed their behavior, they enter the maintenance stage. During this stage, they work to prevent relapse and consolidate the gains they have made. Maintenance can be a long-term process, and individuals may face ongoing challenges and temptations.
6. Termination: In some versions of the model, a sixth stage called termination is included. In this stage, individuals have fully integrated the desired behavior change into their lives, and the old behavior is no longer a temptation or threat.

The TTM recognizes that behavior change is not a linear process, and individuals may cycle back and forth between stages, particularly during early attempts at change. It also emphasizes that successful behavior change requires tailored interventions that address the unique needs and challenges of each stage.

Over time, the Transtheoretical Model has been applied to a wide range of behaviors beyond addiction, including exercise, diet, medication adherence, and mental health. It has also been influential in the development of various behavior change interventions and programs.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Transpersonal psychology?

Transpersonal psychology is a field of psychology that focuses on exploring and studying the spiritual and transcendent aspects of human experience. It goes beyond the traditional realms of psychology, which primarily focus on the study of mental and emotional processes, and delves into areas of consciousness, self-discovery, and personal growth.

The term “transpersonal” refers to experiences, phenomena, and insights that extend beyond the individual ego and personal identity. Transpersonal psychologists recognize that human beings have the capacity to transcend their individual limitations and connect with something greater than themselves, such as a higher power, universal consciousness, or spiritual dimensions.

Transpersonal psychology integrates psychological, philosophical, and spiritual perspectives to understand and explore human experiences that go beyond ordinary consciousness. It draws upon various disciplines, including psychology, anthropology, neuroscience, philosophy, and spirituality, to investigate phenomena such as peak experiences, mystical experiences, spiritual crises, transformative experiences, and states of consciousness associated with meditation and other contemplative practices.

Some key concepts and areas of study within transpersonal psychology include:

1. Self-transcendence: The exploration of experiences and states of being that transcend the individual ego and personal identity.
2. Peak experiences: Profound moments of joy, bliss, or insight that can occur during activities such as meditation, nature exploration, artistic expression, or intense human connections.
3. Spiritual development: The study of spiritual growth, transformation, and the development of a sense of meaning and purpose in life.
4. Mindfulness and meditation: The investigation of mindfulness practices and meditation techniques as means to cultivate self-awareness, focus attention, and facilitate personal growth.
5. Altered states of consciousness: The examination of non-ordinary states of consciousness induced by meditation, psychedelics, or other means, and their potential for healing, insight, and transformation.
6. Transpersonal psychotherapy: The application of transpersonal principles and practices in therapeutic settings to facilitate personal growth, self-exploration, and healing.

It’s important to note that transpersonal psychology is considered a branch or perspective within the broader field of psychology, and it coexists with other psychological approaches, such as psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and humanistic psychology.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Transference focused psychotherapy?

Transference-focused psychotherapy (TFP) is a form of psychodynamic psychotherapy that focuses on understanding and working with the transference and countertransference dynamics within the therapeutic relationship. It was developed by Dr. Otto F. Kernberg as a treatment for individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD).

TFP is based on the psychodynamic concept of transference, which refers to the unconscious feelings, attitudes, and reactions a person has towards the therapist that are based on their past relationships, particularly early relationships with significant figures such as parents or caregivers. These transference reactions can be positive or negative and can greatly influence the therapeutic process.

In TFP, the therapist actively engages with the patient’s transference and countertransference dynamics. Countertransference refers to the therapist’s emotional reactions and unconscious responses to the patient. By carefully observing and interpreting these dynamics, the therapist helps the patient develop insight into their unconscious conflicts, relationship patterns, and emotional experiences.

The goal of TFP is to help patients understand and modify their maladaptive relationship patterns and develop healthier ways of relating to others. The therapist works collaboratively with the patient to explore the underlying conflicts, defenses, and emotions that contribute to their difficulties in relationships. This exploration often involves examining the patient’s past experiences and the ways in which these experiences influence their current interpersonal functioning.

TFP typically involves weekly individual therapy sessions, and the therapy relationship itself becomes a crucial focus of exploration and understanding. The therapist maintains a neutral and non-judgmental stance while providing interpretations and interventions to facilitate the patient’s insight and growth.

While initially developed for BPD, TFP has also been adapted for the treatment of other personality disorders and related conditions characterized by difficulties in relationships and emotion regulation.

It’s important to note that TFP is a specialized form of therapy that requires training and expertise in psychodynamic approaches. If you’re interested in pursuing TFP or have specific questions about it, it’s recommended to consult with a mental health professional who is trained and experienced in this approach.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Transactional analysis?

Transactional analysis (TA) is a psychological theory and therapeutic approach developed by Eric Berne in the 1950s. It provides a framework for understanding human behavior, communication, and personal development. TA focuses on analyzing the transactions (interactions) between individuals, and how these interactions are influenced by each person’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

At its core, TA suggests that individuals have three ego states: Parent, Adult, and Child. Each ego state represents a specific set of attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors that people adopt during their interactions. These ego states can influence the dynamics of communication and relationships.

Parent ego state: This ego state represents the internalized values, attitudes, and behaviors we have acquired from our caregivers and authority figures. It can manifest as nurturing and caring (Nurturing Parent) or controlling and critical (Critical Parent).

Adult ego state: The Adult ego state reflects a person’s rational, objective, and logical thinking. It involves processing information based on the present moment, without being influenced by past experiences or emotions.

Child ego state: The Child ego state represents our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that are reminiscent of our childhood experiences. It can be divided into the Natural Child (spontaneous, playful) and the Adapted Child (compliant, conforming).

Transactional analysis examines how individuals switch between these ego states during interpersonal interactions, known as transactions. It also explores the concept of life scripts, which are unconscious patterns of thoughts and behaviors that we develop in childhood and carry into adulthood.

TA therapy utilizes these concepts to help individuals gain insight into their patterns of communication, behavior, and relationships. The aim is to promote self-awareness, personal growth, and effective communication by identifying and changing unhelpful patterns and scripts.

Transactional analysis has found applications not only in therapy but also in fields such as education, organizational development, and interpersonal communication. It provides a framework for understanding and improving relationships, enhancing communication skills, and fostering personal development.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Thought Field Therapy?

Thought Field Therapy (TFT) is a therapeutic approach that combines elements of cognitive psychology, traditional Chinese medicine, and acupressure. It was developed by Dr. Roger Callahan in the 1980s. TFT is based on the concept that negative emotions and psychological problems are caused by disturbances in the body’s energy system.

According to TFT, specific psychological problems are associated with specific “thought fields” or energy meridians in the body. These thought fields can be accessed and manipulated through a series of tapping or rubbing techniques on specific acupressure points on the body. By tapping on these points in a particular sequence, it is believed that the disruptions in the body’s energy system can be corrected, leading to the alleviation of emotional distress and psychological problems.

TFT is often used to address issues such as anxiety, phobias, trauma, addictive cravings, and emotional disturbances. It involves identifying the specific problem or negative emotion, assessing the intensity of the emotion on a subjective scale, and then applying the appropriate tapping sequence on specific acupressure points. The tapping is usually accompanied by verbal affirmations or repetitions of specific phrases related to the issue being addressed.

Critics of TFT argue that its effectiveness is largely based on the placebo effect and that the underlying theories and mechanisms are not supported by scientific evidence. While there have been some studies suggesting positive outcomes for TFT, the overall body of research is limited, and more rigorous scientific investigations are needed to validate its claims. It is worth noting that variations of TFT, such as Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), have gained more recognition and have been the subject of additional research.

If you are considering using Thought Field Therapy or any other therapeutic approach, it is important to consult with a qualified mental health professional who can guide you through the process and provide appropriate support.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Therapeutic community?

A therapeutic community (TC) is a structured and immersive treatment environment designed to facilitate personal growth, healing, and recovery from various psychological and behavioral issues. It is commonly used in the field of mental health and addiction treatment.

In a therapeutic community, individuals with similar challenges come together to create a supportive and therapeutic community. The primary goal is to provide a safe and structured environment where individuals can explore and address the underlying causes of their difficulties. The community functions as a microcosm of society, offering opportunities for individuals to learn and practice new behaviors, develop healthy relationships, and acquire skills necessary for successful reintegration into the larger community.

Key features of a therapeutic community may include:

Community as Method: The community itself becomes an essential part of the therapeutic process. Participants engage in various communal activities, such as group therapy, group decision-making, and shared responsibilities within the community.

Peer Support: Mutual support among community members is a fundamental aspect of a therapeutic community. Peers provide encouragement, empathy, and feedback, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance.

Therapeutic Environment: The physical environment is designed to promote personal growth and self-reflection. This may include comfortable living spaces, common areas for group activities, and spaces for individual reflection.

Holistic Approach: Therapeutic communities typically adopt a holistic approach to treatment, considering the psychological, emotional, physical, and social dimensions of a person’s well-being. Various therapeutic modalities, such as counseling, group therapy, vocational training, and recreational activities, may be incorporated.

Shared Responsibility: Participants are encouraged to actively engage in decision-making processes within the community. This shared responsibility fosters a sense of ownership and accountability, promoting personal growth and autonomy.

Therapeutic communities can be found in residential treatment centers, inpatient facilities, or as part of community-based programs. They are often used in the treatment of substance abuse, mental health disorders, and other behavioral issues, providing individuals with a supportive and transformative environment to facilitate their recovery and overall well-being.

Shervan K Shahhian

What are T-groups?

T-groups, also known as training groups or sensitivity groups, are a form of experiential learning method used in various fields, including psychology, management, and personal development. T-group stands for “training group,” and it was originally developed by Kurt Lewin and his colleagues in the 1940s.

T-groups are designed to provide participants with a structured environment in which they can explore and learn about themselves, their interactions with others, and group dynamics. The primary focus of a T-group is to enhance self-awareness, interpersonal skills, and group effectiveness through experiential exercises and feedback.

Here are some key features of T-groups:

1. Experiential Learning: T-groups emphasize learning through direct experience. Participants engage in various activities and interactions within the group to observe their own behavior and its impact on others.
2. Feedback and Reflection: T-groups offer opportunities for participants to give and receive feedback in a supportive and constructive manner. This feedback helps individuals gain insights into their communication styles, behaviors, and how they are perceived by others.
3. Group Dynamics: T-groups examine the dynamics and processes that occur within a group setting. Participants explore topics such as communication patterns, leadership styles, decision-making processes, conflict resolution, and power dynamics.
4. Emotional Expression: T-groups encourage individuals to express their feelings and emotions openly. This promotes self-awareness, authenticity, and understanding of emotional reactions within interpersonal relationships.
5. Facilitator Role: A skilled facilitator guides the T-group process. The facilitator ensures a safe and respectful environment, provides structure, encourages participation, and offers insights and observations to support individual and group learning.
6. Confidentiality: T-groups typically emphasize the importance of confidentiality. Participants are encouraged to create a safe space where they can share personal experiences and feelings without fear of judgment or repercussions.

T-groups have been used in a variety of settings, including organizational development, leadership training, counseling and therapy, and interpersonal skills development. They provide a unique platform for individuals to learn about themselves, enhance their interpersonal skills, and improve their ability to work effectively in groups.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Systemic therapy?

Systemic therapy, also known as systemic family therapy or family systems therapy, is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on treating individuals and their problems within the context of their larger social systems. It views individuals as part of interconnected systems, such as families, relationships, or organizations, and recognizes that problems experienced by one person are often influenced by and interconnected with the dynamics of the larger system.

The central premise of systemic therapy is that change occurs through understanding and addressing the patterns of interaction and communication within a system. It recognizes that individuals are not isolated entities but are influenced by and influence the people and relationships around them. Therefore, systemic therapy seeks to understand and intervene in the entire system rather than solely focusing on the individual.

Systemic therapists work collaboratively with individuals, couples, or families to explore the relational dynamics, communication patterns, and beliefs that contribute to the presenting problem. They aim to identify and address dysfunctional patterns, improve communication, and foster healthier relationships within the system. The therapist may use various techniques and interventions, such as reframing, circular questioning, genograms, and enactments, to facilitate understanding and change within the system.

Systemic therapy can be used to address a wide range of issues, including relationship conflicts, family dysfunction, communication problems, behavioral issues in children, mental health disorders, and substance abuse. It is often employed as a short-term, solution-focused approach, although the duration of therapy can vary depending on the complexity of the issues and the goals of the individuals involved.

Overall, systemic therapy offers a holistic perspective that acknowledges the interconnectedness of individuals and their social systems, emphasizing the importance of relationships and their impact on mental health and well-being.

Shervan K Shahhian