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

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

What is Regulation-focused psychotherapy?

Regulation-focused psychotherapy (RFP) is a therapeutic approach developed by Dr. Allan Schore, a prominent researcher and clinician in the field of developmental neuroscience and psychotherapy. RFP integrates principles from neuroscience, attachment theory, and psychodynamic therapy to address emotional dysregulation and promote emotional well-being.

The core concept in Regulation-focused psychotherapy is the emphasis on the regulation of emotional states. It recognizes that emotional dysregulation lies at the root of many psychological disorders, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and borderline personality disorder. The goal of RFP is to help individuals develop and enhance their capacity for self-regulation, which involves the ability to modulate and manage emotions effectively.

RFP draws upon attachment theory, which suggests that early relationships and experiences shape an individual’s capacity for self-regulation. The therapist helps the client explore and understand their attachment patterns and how these patterns impact their emotional regulation. The therapeutic relationship itself becomes an important source of emotional regulation, providing a secure base for the client to explore and process difficult emotions.

The therapeutic techniques used in Regulation-focused psychotherapy vary depending on the individual’s needs, but they often involve a combination of talk therapy, emotion-focused techniques, mindfulness practices, and somatic (body-oriented) interventions. The therapist aims to help clients increase their awareness of their emotional states, identify triggers and patterns of dysregulation, and develop strategies to regulate their emotions more effectively.

RFP can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced early trauma or disrupted attachment relationships, as it addresses the underlying neurobiological and emotional processes that contribute to their difficulties. By promoting emotional regulation and fostering healthier attachment patterns, RFP aims to improve overall psychological well-being and enhance individuals’ ability to form healthy relationships.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Re-evaluation counseling?

Re-evaluation counseling, also known as Co-Counseling or RC, is a form of peer-based counseling and personal development that aims to help individuals overcome the effects of past distressing experiences. It was developed in the 1950s by Harvey Jackins, an American social activist and therapist.

The fundamental principle of Re-evaluation counseling is that everyone has inherent worth and potential and that they can heal and grow through connection and mutual support. The process involves two people, referred to as co-counselors, who take turns counseling each other in structured sessions.

During a counseling session, one person acts as the client and shares their thoughts, feelings, and experiences while the other person serves as the counselor, providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment. The counselor listens attentively, encourages the client to express emotions, and offers empathy and understanding. The goal is to create a safe space where individuals can explore and release past traumas, gain insight into patterns of thinking and behavior, and develop new perspectives and strategies for living.

Re-evaluation counseling emphasizes the importance of discharging emotions related to past hurts through techniques such as crying, shaking, or laughing, as a way to release and heal from these experiences. The underlying belief is that through this process, individuals can regain their natural abilities, creativity, and full emotional range, leading to personal growth and empowerment.

Re-evaluation counseling has been used to address a wide range of issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and personal development goals. It is often practiced in peer-led support groups and workshops, where individuals can receive ongoing support and connect with others on a similar healing journey.

It’s important to note that while Re-evaluation counseling has been beneficial for many individuals, it is not a substitute for professional therapy or mental health treatment. If you are seeking help for significant mental health concerns, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified therapist or counselor.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Recovered-memory therapy?

Recovered-memory therapy (RMT) refers to a controversial and now largely discredited form of therapy that emerged in the 1980s and 1990s. It involved a therapeutic approach aimed at helping individuals recover repressed or forgotten memories of traumatic events, particularly childhood sexual abuse.

The underlying premise of RMT was that traumatic memories were stored in the unconscious mind and could be accessed and brought to conscious awareness through various therapeutic techniques. Therapists who practiced RMT used methods such as hypnosis, guided imagery, suggestion, and other memory retrieval techniques to assist their clients in recalling and confronting these allegedly repressed memories.

However, the validity and scientific basis of RMT have been heavily criticized. Numerous studies have demonstrated that memory is highly malleable and subject to distortion, and that false memories can be inadvertently implanted through suggestive techniques used in therapy. There have been cases where individuals undergoing RMT have claimed to recover memories of abuse that were later proven to be false or unsubstantiated.

As a result of these concerns, many professional organizations, such as the American Psychological Association, have discredited RMT and issued statements cautioning against its use. The potential for harm, including the creation of false memories and the distress caused to individuals and their families, has led to a significant decline in the use of RMT in clinical practice.

It’s important to note that therapy approaches have evolved over time, and evidence-based practices focus on the well-being and mental health of individuals through methods that are grounded in scientific research and ethical standards.

Shervan K Shahhian

What is Rebirthing-breathwork?

Rebirthing breathwork, also known as breathwork or conscious connected breathing, is a holistic healing practice that involves utilizing the breath to access and release deep-seated emotional and physical blockages. It is a form of experiential therapy that aims to promote self-awareness, personal growth, and healing.

During a typical rebirthing breathwork session, an individual lies down in a comfortable position and engages in a specific breathing pattern. The breathwork facilitator guides the person to breathe consciously and continuously without pauses between inhalation and exhalation. This rhythmic and deep breathing is believed to activate the body’s natural healing mechanisms and increase the flow of life force energy.

The continuous and intentional breathing pattern in rebirthing breathwork aims to release physical and emotional tension, trauma, and suppressed emotions held within the body. It is thought that these unresolved experiences and emotions can create energetic blockages and contribute to various physical, mental, and emotional imbalances.

As the individual breathes deeply and consistently, they may experience a range of sensations, emotions, and memories. It is not uncommon for people to have intense emotional releases, cathartic moments, or vivid insights during the breathwork session. The facilitator provides a supportive environment and guidance throughout the process, helping the individual navigate and integrate their experiences.

The term “rebirthing” in rebirthing breathwork refers to the idea that through conscious breathing, one can experience a symbolic rebirth or a deep sense of renewal and transformation. It is believed that by releasing suppressed emotions and accessing deeper levels of self-awareness, individuals can move towards greater emotional well-being, personal growth, and spiritual development.

It’s important to note that rebirthing breathwork should be practiced under the guidance of a trained facilitator who can provide a safe and supportive environment. This practice may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain respiratory conditions or mental health concerns. It’s always recommended to consult with a qualified professional before engaging in any alternative healing modality.

Shervan K Shahhian