This lesson introduces the main goals of treatment and distinguishes psychotherapy from biomedical therapy. It also explores psychoanalysis and the less intensive psychodynamic approach.
Therapy can help a person recognize and stop repeating destructive patterns, understand difficult situations, and develop more constructive responses. Portia Nelson’s poem Autobiography in Five Short Chapters illustrates this process: a person first repeats a problem without recognizing it, then gradually becomes aware of it, takes responsibility, avoids the familiar trap, and eventually chooses a different path.
All flashcards
What is psychotherapy?
A psychological treatment using methods such as conversation, learning, or reflection to address personal problems or support growth.
What is biomedical therapy?
Treatment of psychological disorders using medication and/or medical procedures.
What is transference?
When a client redirects feelings associated with important relationships onto the therapist.
What does client-centered therapy emphasize?
A nondirective approach that supports self-understanding through acceptance, empathy, and active listening.
What is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)?
A treatment that uses an electrical current to induce a seizure and may help severe depression.
Quiz questions
In directive play therapy, what does the therapist do?Answer: Structures the session by suggesting topics, asking questions, or joining the play.
In the ABC model used in cognitive-behavioral approaches, what does B represent?Answer: The belief a person forms about an activating event.
What does evidence-based practice in psychology integrate?Answer: Research evidence, clinical expertise, and the client's characteristics and preferences.
How do selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) affect serotonin activity?Answer: They selectively inhibit serotonin reuptake.
What distinguishes transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) from ECT?Answer: TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate brain nerve cells rather than inducing a seizure with electrical current.
Based on Psychology 2e by Rose M. Spielman, William J. Jenkins, Marilyn D. Lovett (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.