Types of Therapy Explained: Exploring Different Paths to Healing

When life feels overwhelming, confusing, or just plain tough, therapy can be a gentle hand to hold. But with so many types of therapy out there, it’s natural to wonder which one might be the right fit. I want to walk you through some of the most common types of therapy and share how they can help. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, relationship struggles, trauma, or just need someone to listen, there’s a path that can support you.

At The Empathy Project CIC, we believe everyone deserves access to affordable, compassionate counselling without long waits or barriers. We’re here in Southampton and the Isle of Wight, ready to help you find the right kind of support.

Types of Therapy Explained: What Are Your Options?

Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different approaches work better for different people and situations. Here’s a look at some popular types of therapy, what they involve, and how they might benefit you.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT is one of the most widely used therapies, and for good reason. It focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours. Imagine your mind as a garden - CBT helps you pull out the weeds of negative thinking and plant seeds of healthier perspectives.

For example, if you struggle with anxiety, CBT can teach you to challenge the “what if” thoughts that spiral out of control. It’s practical, goal-oriented, and often involves homework like journaling or practising new skills between sessions.

Person-Centred Therapy

This approach is all about you. It’s based on the belief that you have the inner resources to heal and grow, and the therapist’s role is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space. The therapist listens deeply, offering empathy and understanding without directing or advising.

Person-centred therapy can be especially helpful if you’re feeling lost, stuck, or just need someone to truly hear you. It’s gentle and supportive, allowing you to explore your feelings at your own pace.

A welcoming therapy space designed for comfort and safety

Psychodynamic Therapy

This type of therapy digs into the past to understand how early experiences shape current feelings and behaviours. It’s about uncovering unconscious patterns and unresolved conflicts that might be influencing your life today.

Psychodynamic therapy can be a powerful way to gain insight and make lasting changes. It often involves exploring relationships, childhood memories, and emotional patterns. If you’re curious about why you react a certain way or want to understand yourself more deeply, this might be the path for you.

Family and Couples Therapy

Sometimes, the challenges we face aren’t just ours alone. Family and couples therapy focus on improving communication, resolving conflicts, and strengthening relationships. It’s a space where everyone can express their feelings and work together towards healthier dynamics.

Whether you’re navigating parenting struggles, relationship breakdowns, or family tensions, this therapy helps build understanding and connection. It’s about teamwork and healing together.

Trauma-Informed Therapy

Trauma can leave deep wounds that affect every part of life. Trauma-informed therapy recognises this and creates a safe environment to process painful experiences. Therapists trained in this approach use techniques that respect your pace and boundaries.

This therapy can include methods like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) or somatic experiencing, which focus on healing the body as well as the mind. If you’ve experienced abuse, loss, or any form of trauma, this approach can offer gentle, effective support.

Tools often used in therapy sessions to support reflection and healing

How Therapy Can Benefit You: More Than Just Talking

Therapy isn’t just about talking through problems. It’s about discovering new ways to cope, building resilience, and finding hope. Here are some benefits you might experience:

• Improved emotional wellbeing: Therapy helps you understand and manage your feelings better.

• Better relationships: Learning communication skills and empathy can transform how you connect with others.

• Increased self-awareness: You get to know yourself more deeply, which can guide your choices and growth.

• Coping strategies: Therapy equips you with tools to handle stress, anxiety, and difficult situations.

• Healing from trauma: It provides a safe space to process and move forward from painful experiences.

  
  

At The Empathy Project CIC, we see these benefits every day. Our clients often tell us how counselling has helped them feel less alone and more hopeful about the future.

Making Therapy Accessible: How We Support You

One of the biggest barriers to therapy is cost and waiting times. We’re proud to offer affordable counselling with no waiting list and no limit on the number of sessions you can have. Plus, our easy self-referral system through our secure counselling portal means you can start the process quickly and confidentially.

We also offer a free consultation call over the phone, so you can ask questions and see if therapy feels right for you before committing. And if finances are tight, our Community Fund provides low-cost counselling to ensure money isn’t a barrier to getting help.

Our small team of highly experienced counsellors is here to provide a compassionate, personalised service tailored to your needs. Whether you’re a child aged 10 or over, an adult, a couple, or a family, we’re ready to walk alongside you.

Taking the First Step: What to Expect

Starting therapy can feel daunting, but it’s a brave and positive step. Here’s what you can expect when you reach out:

1. Initial contact: You can self-refer through our secure portal or call us for a free consultation.

2. Matching with a counsellor: We’ll connect you with a therapist who suits your needs and preferences.

3. First session: This is a chance to get to know each other, discuss your goals, and ask any questions.

4. Ongoing sessions: Therapy is flexible - you decide how often to come and what to focus on.

5. Support between sessions: Many find journaling, mindfulness, or simple self-care helpful alongside therapy.

   
   

Remember, therapy is your space. There’s no rush, no pressure, just support at your pace.

If you’re curious to learn more or want to start your journey, visit The Empathy Project CIC to explore our services and how we can help you find the right kind of therapy.

Therapy is a journey, and every step you take is a step towards healing and hope. You don’t have to do it alone - we’re here to walk with you.

Thank you for reading. If you found this helpful, please share it with someone who might benefit too.