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

What is Sensory integration therapy?

Sensory integration therapy, also known as sensory integration intervention or sensory integration disorder, is a form of therapy that aims to help individuals who have difficulties processing and integrating sensory information from their environment. It is often used as a treatment approach for children with sensory processing disorders, although it can also be beneficial for individuals of all ages.

The theory behind sensory integration therapy is based on the idea that individuals with sensory processing difficulties have challenges organizing and interpreting sensory input, such as touch, movement, sight, sound, and proprioception (the sense of body position). These difficulties can result in behavioral, emotional, and developmental issues.

Sensory integration therapy involves the use of specifically designed activities and exercises in a controlled environment, typically under the guidance of an occupational therapist trained in sensory integration techniques. The therapy sessions are tailored to meet the individual’s specific sensory needs and challenges.

During therapy, various sensory experiences are provided to help individuals improve their ability to process and respond appropriately to sensory information. These experiences can include activities such as swinging, jumping, climbing, playing with textured materials, and engaging in deep pressure activities.

The primary goals of sensory integration therapy are to improve sensory processing, enhance adaptive responses to sensory stimuli, promote self-regulation, and enhance overall functional skills. By addressing sensory processing difficulties, the therapy aims to improve an individual’s ability to participate in daily activities, enhance their attention and concentration, promote motor skills development, and reduce behavioral issues.

It’s important to note that sensory integration therapy is a controversial topic within the medical and scientific communities. While some professionals and families report positive outcomes, there is limited scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness as a standalone treatment. As with any therapy, it’s recommended to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate interventions for an individual’s specific needs.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Sensorimotor psychotherapy?

Sensorimotor psychotherapy is a therapeutic approach that integrates elements of somatic (body-based) therapy and traditional psychotherapy. It was developed by Pat Ogden, a psychologist and pioneer in the field of somatic psychology. Sensorimotor psychotherapy focuses on the relationship between the body and the mind, recognizing that traumatic experiences can be stored in the body and impact a person’s overall well-being.

The approach combines principles from neuroscience, attachment theory, and cognitive psychology to address the impact of trauma on an individual’s nervous system and bodily experiences. It emphasizes the importance of somatic awareness, meaning the ability to notice bodily sensations, movements, and patterns as they arise in the present moment.

Sensorimotor psychotherapy views the body as a source of valuable information and a pathway for healing. It recognizes that trauma can result in dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, leading to symptoms such as hypervigilance, dissociation, or chronic pain. By integrating mindfulness and body-oriented techniques, the therapy aims to help individuals develop a greater awareness of their bodily sensations, discharge pent-up energy related to trauma, and re-establish a sense of safety and regulation.

During sensorimotor psychotherapy sessions, the therapist may guide the client to pay attention to their physical sensations, notice patterns of movement, explore the impact of past experiences on their body, and practice techniques to regulate their nervous system. By working through traumatic memories in a safe and embodied way, individuals can process and release stored trauma, promote integration of body and mind, and improve their overall well-being.

Sensorimotor psychotherapy is often used to address various types of trauma, including but not limited to developmental trauma, attachment-related issues, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It can be used as a standalone therapy or integrated into other therapeutic modalities, depending on the needs and preferences of the individual.

Shervan K Shahhian

School-based family counseling is a type of counseling service that is provided within the school setting to address the needs of students and their families. It involves bringing together the student, their family members, and a trained counselor or therapist to work on improving the overall well-being and functioning of the student and their family.

The primary goal of school-based family counseling is to enhance the academic, social, and emotional development of the student by addressing any issues or challenges that may be impacting their well-being and ability to succeed in school. It recognizes that family dynamics and relationships play a crucial role in a student’s life and can significantly influence their overall functioning.

The counseling sessions typically involve a collaborative approach, where the counselor works closely with the student and their family members to identify and address specific concerns or difficulties. These concerns may include academic struggles, behavioral problems, communication issues, conflict resolution, stress management, parenting challenges, or other family-related issues.

School-based family counseling may employ various therapeutic techniques and interventions, such as individual counseling for the student, family therapy sessions, group discussions, skill-building exercises, and parent education. The counselor may also collaborate with other school personnel, such as teachers and administrators, to develop strategies and interventions that can support the student’s well-being and academic success.

By providing counseling services within the school environment, school-based family counseling aims to increase accessibility and convenience for families. It recognizes that school is a central and familiar place for students and offers a supportive and collaborative approach to address their emotional and family-related needs, ultimately promoting a positive school experience and overall well-being.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Schema therapy?

Schema therapy is a therapeutic approach that integrates principles from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and attachment theory to help individuals with deep-seated emotional and relational difficulties. It was developed by psychologist Jeffrey E. Young in the 1980s.

The main focus of schema therapy is to identify and address maladaptive schemas, which are deep-rooted emotional and cognitive patterns that develop early in life and continue to influence a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. These schemas are often formed in response to unmet emotional needs or traumatic experiences during childhood.

Schema therapy aims to help individuals recognize their maladaptive schemas, understand their origins, and work towards changing them in order to improve their overall well-being and relationships. It typically involves several core components:

Cognitive techniques: Schema therapy uses cognitive techniques to help individuals identify and challenge their negative and self-defeating beliefs. This involves exploring the underlying assumptions, automatic thoughts, and cognitive distortions that contribute to the maintenance of maladaptive schemas.

Emotional techniques: Emotions play a crucial role in schema therapy. Therapists help individuals identify and express their emotions related to the maladaptive schemas, providing a safe space for emotional exploration and processing. This can involve techniques such as imagery, chair work, and experiential exercises.

Behavioral techniques: Schema therapy also incorporates behavioral techniques to address maladaptive coping strategies and promote healthier behaviors. Individuals are encouraged to engage in activities that go against their schema-driven patterns and develop new, adaptive behaviors.

Relational techniques: Given the influence of early attachment experiences on schema development, schema therapy places emphasis on the therapeutic relationship. The therapist provides a safe and empathetic environment, modeling healthy interactions and helping the individual develop a secure and trusting bond.

Schema therapy is typically a longer-term treatment compared to traditional CBT, as it aims to address deep-seated patterns and achieve lasting change. It is commonly used to treat a range of psychological disorders, including personality disorders, chronic depression, anxiety disorders, and relationship difficulties.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Sandplay therapy?

What is Sandplay therapy?

Sandplay therapy is a therapeutic approach that combines elements of play therapy and the use of a sandbox filled with sand and miniature objects. It was developed by the Swiss psychologist Dora Kalff in the 1950s and is often used with children but can also be effective with adults.

In sandplay therapy, the client is provided with a tray or a small box filled with sand, along with a wide variety of miniature figures and objects such as people, animals, houses, trees, and various symbols. The client is given the freedom to create and manipulate their own world within the sand.

The client is encouraged to use the sand and objects to create scenes or landscapes that represent their inner thoughts, feelings, and conflicts. The therapist acts as a facilitator, observing the client’s creations and engaging in dialogue when appropriate.

The symbolic nature of sandplay therapy allows clients to express and explore their unconscious thoughts and emotions in a nonverbal and non-threatening way. It provides a safe and contained space for clients to work through their experiences, gain insight into their struggles, and find resolutions.

Sandplay therapy can be particularly effective for individuals who have difficulty verbalizing their emotions or for those who have experienced trauma. It can help in processing traumatic memories, exploring inner conflicts, and fostering self-awareness and personal growth.

It’s important to note that sandplay therapy should be conducted by trained professionals, such as licensed therapists or counselors who have received specific training in this modality. They have the knowledge and skills to guide the therapeutic process and create a supportive environment for clients to engage in sandplay.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Rogerian psychotherapy?

Rogerian psychotherapy, also known as person-centered therapy, is a form of psychotherapy developed by the American psychologist Carl Rogers. It is a humanistic approach that emphasizes empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness in the therapeutic relationship.

Rogerian psychotherapy is based on the belief that individuals have the capacity for self-understanding and self-direction, and that they can move towards personal growth and psychological healing given the right conditions. The therapist’s role is to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment that allows clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences freely.

Key principles of Rogerian psychotherapy include:

Unconditional positive regard: The therapist accepts and values the client unconditionally, providing a safe and non-judgmental space for self-exploration. This acceptance encourages clients to be open and honest about their experiences.

Empathy: The therapist strives to understand the client’s subjective experience and perspectives without judgment or interpretation. Empathy involves active listening, reflection, and an ability to accurately grasp the client’s feelings and meaning.

Congruence or genuineness: The therapist is authentic and transparent, expressing themselves genuinely and honestly in the therapeutic relationship. This congruence creates an atmosphere of trust and openness, allowing clients to feel understood and accepted.

The goal of Rogerian psychotherapy is to help individuals develop a greater sense of self-acceptance, self-understanding, and self-direction. By providing a supportive and empathic environment, the therapy aims to promote personal growth, increase self-esteem, and facilitate positive changes in clients’ lives.

It’s important to note that Rogerian psychotherapy is a non-directive approach, meaning that the therapist does not provide explicit advice or solutions. Instead, they assist the client in exploring their own thoughts and feelings, trusting in the client’s inherent capacity for growth and self-discovery.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Remote therapy?

Remote therapy, also known as teletherapy or online therapy, refers to the delivery of psychological counseling and support services through remote communication technologies, such as video conferencing, phone calls, or online messaging platforms. It allows individuals to access therapy sessions from the comfort of their own homes or any location with an internet connection, eliminating the need for in-person visits to a therapist’s office.

Remote therapy utilizes various digital tools and platforms to facilitate communication between therapists and clients. Video conferencing platforms, like Zoom or Skype, enable real-time, face-to-face interactions where both the therapist and client can see and hear each other. Phone calls are another common method for remote therapy, providing voice-based counseling and support. Additionally, some therapists offer therapy sessions through secure online messaging platforms or email exchanges.

The concept of remote therapy has gained popularity due to its convenience, accessibility, and the growing acceptance of technology in healthcare. It enables individuals to seek therapy without geographical limitations, making it particularly beneficial for those in remote areas or with limited access to mental health services. Remote therapy also offers flexibility in scheduling, allowing individuals to fit therapy sessions into their busy lives more easily.

While remote therapy shares similarities with traditional in-person therapy, there are some considerations to keep in mind. For example, privacy and confidentiality become crucial factors, and both the therapist and client must ensure they are in a secure and private environment during sessions. Therapists may also need to adapt their approaches and techniques to suit the online format, as nonverbal cues may be less prominent or harder to interpret.

It’s important to note that remote therapy may not be suitable for everyone or every type of mental health concern. Some individuals may benefit more from in-person therapy, especially if they require more intensive or specialized care. However, for many people, remote therapy can be a convenient and effective option for receiving support and treatment for various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and more.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Reminiscence therapy?

Reminiscence therapy is a therapeutic approach that involves the use of memories and familiar experiences to improve an individual’s well-being and quality of life, particularly for those suffering from cognitive decline or memory loss. It is often used with older adults, individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, and those with other neurological conditions.

The primary goal of reminiscence therapy is to stimulate memories and emotions associated with past experiences. This is typically done through conversations, storytelling, or engaging with mementos, photographs, music, or other sensory triggers that evoke memories. The therapy aims to tap into long-term memories, as they tend to be more resilient in individuals with cognitive impairments compared to short-term memories.

By encouraging individuals to recall and share their personal stories, reminiscence therapy can promote a sense of self-identity, enhance self-esteem, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve overall mood and social interactions. It can also help bridge the communication gap between individuals with cognitive impairments and their loved ones or caregivers.

Reminiscence therapy can be conducted in various settings, such as individual or group sessions in healthcare facilities, nursing homes, or even at home with the assistance of family members or trained professionals. The therapist or facilitator creates a supportive and non-judgmental environment that encourages participants to reminisce and share their memories.

It’s important to note that while reminiscence therapy can be beneficial, it is not a cure for cognitive decline or memory loss. It is primarily aimed at improving the well-being and quality of life of individuals by utilizing their remaining cognitive abilities and stimulating positive emotional experiences associated with their past.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Relational-cultural therapy?

Relational-cultural therapy (RCT) is an approach to psychotherapy that emphasizes the importance of relationships and connections in human development and well-being. It is rooted in the theory of relational-cultural theory (RCT), which was developed by Jean Baker Miller and colleagues in the 1970s.

The central premise of RCT is that humans are inherently relational beings and that growth and healing occur through mutually empathic and authentic connections with others. It recognizes that cultural, social, and relational factors significantly impact an individual’s psychological well-being.

RCT focuses on the concept of “relational-cultural” growth, which refers to the idea that personal growth occurs through healthy and growth-fostering relationships. The therapy aims to create a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship where the client can explore and work through relational difficulties, such as power imbalances, disconnections, and emotional pain.

Key principles of Relational-cultural therapy include:

The power of connection: RCT emphasizes that growth and healing occur through genuine and empathic connections with others. Therapists actively engage in creating a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship.

Relational-cultural competence: RCT recognizes the impact of cultural and social factors on individuals and their relationships. Therapists strive to be culturally competent, understanding the intersectionality of various identities and their influence on clients’ experiences.

Non-hierarchical relationships: RCT challenges traditional power dynamics and hierarchical relationships. It promotes egalitarian and mutually respectful relationships where power and authority are shared.

Empathy and mutual empowerment: The therapy values empathy, mutual understanding, and mutual empowerment. Therapists aim to create an environment where clients feel heard, validated, and empowered to express their emotions and needs.

Growth-fostering relationships: RCT focuses on creating relationships that facilitate growth, resilience, and well-being. The therapy aims to help clients develop healthier relational patterns and address relational wounds from the past.

Relational-cultural therapy is utilized in various clinical settings, including individual therapy, couples therapy, and group therapy. It has been applied to a wide range of issues, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, and identity concerns. The approach acknowledges that individual well-being is interconnected with social and cultural contexts, and it seeks to promote personal growth and social change simultaneously.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Relationship counseling?

Relationship counseling, also known as couples therapy or marriage counseling, is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on helping couples and individuals resolve problems and improve their relationships. It involves working with a trained therapist who specializes in helping couples address their issues and develop healthier patterns of communication and interaction.

Relationship counseling aims to help couples and individuals gain insight into their relationship dynamics, explore and understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and find constructive ways to address conflicts and challenges. The therapist provides a safe and neutral environment where both partners can openly express their concerns, emotions, and perspectives.

The goals of relationship counseling may vary depending on the specific needs of the couple, but some common objectives include:

Improving communication skills: Enhancing communication between partners is often a primary focus of relationship counseling. The therapist helps couples learn effective communication techniques, such as active listening, expressing emotions, and resolving conflicts peacefully.

Resolving conflicts: Relationship counseling helps couples identify the underlying causes of their conflicts and provides strategies to address them in a healthy and constructive manner. The therapist assists in developing problem-solving skills and finding compromises that work for both partners.

Rebuilding trust: If trust has been damaged within the relationship, the therapist helps couples navigate the process of rebuilding trust. This may involve exploring the factors that contributed to the breach of trust, addressing past hurts, and developing strategies to foster trust and security.

Enhancing intimacy and connection: Relationship counseling aims to strengthen the emotional and physical intimacy between partners. The therapist may provide guidance on improving emotional connection, increasing affection, and addressing issues related to sexual intimacy.

Managing transitions and life changes: Relationship counseling can be beneficial during significant life transitions, such as marriage, starting a family, or adjusting to empty nest syndrome. The therapist assists couples in navigating these changes and adapting to new roles and responsibilities.

Strengthening the relationship: Relationship counseling also focuses on fostering overall relationship satisfaction and long-term success. The therapist may help couples identify and build upon their strengths, set goals, and develop strategies for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling relationship.

Relationship counseling can be beneficial for couples at any stage of their relationship, whether they are experiencing specific challenges or simply want to strengthen their bond. It provides a supportive and unbiased space for partners to work through their issues, gain insights, and develop the skills necessary to build a happier and healthier relationship.

Shervan K Shahhian