Which approaches are used in individual therapy?
No single approach suits everyone. In the first sessions we clarify together what the difficulty is, what you have already tried and what the goal is — and the way of working is chosen from there. Usually it is a combination of several approaches, tailored to you and adjusted along the way.
- Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT)
- Psychodynamic therapy
- Trauma-focused therapy
- Acceptance- and mindfulness-based therapy
- Supportive, goal-focused therapy
What is individual therapy?
Understanding individual therapy
Individual therapy is a regular, one-to-one meeting in a confidential, judgement-free space. It is a place where you can say things that are hard to say elsewhere, understand what drives you, and develop ways of coping that actually work in practice — not just in theory.
In the first sessions we’ll get to know your story and define clear goals together. After that the work moves between two levels: understanding — where the pattern came from and what keeps it going; and tools — what you can do differently this very week. We set the pace together, and there is no obligation to talk about anything before you are ready.
What you can gain from individual therapy
Psychotherapy is one of the most researched interventions in mental health, and studies consistently show significant improvement in emotional wellbeing and functioning. The most important factor in success is not the method itself but the quality of the relationship between therapist and client — which is why it matters that you feel comfortable, and a good reason to start with an introductory session.
Relief from symptoms
Less intense anxiety, depression and emotional distress, so that everyday life becomes bearable and you can function again.
Deeper self-understanding
Understanding the patterns that recur in your life and where they come from — which makes it possible to choose differently instead of reacting automatically.
Practical tools for everyday life
Concrete tools for emotional regulation, coping with intrusive thoughts and managing stress, which you can put into practice right away.
Healthier relationships
A better ability to communicate, set boundaries and build relationships that nourish you rather than wear you down.
Signs worth paying attention to
When individual therapy can help
- Low mood or anxiety that persists over time
- Difficulty with sleep, concentration or appetite
- Feeling overwhelmed or out of control
- Reduced functioning at work or in your studies
- Withdrawing from people and activities you used to enjoy
- Patterns that keep repeating in relationships
- Emotional reactions that seem excessive to you
- An ongoing sense that something isn’t right
Good to Know
Useful information before you begin.
How to Choose a Therapist
Clinical and Educational Psychologist — What’s the Difference?
When to Consider Therapy
Confidentiality in Therapy
The First Session — What to Expect
Psychodidactic Assessment — Who It Is For
ASD Assessment — How the Process Works
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
Who is individual therapy for?
Individual therapy is suitable for adolescents and adults coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, life crises, relationship difficulties or a general sense that something is stuck. You don’t need a psychiatric diagnosis to start, and no difficulty is “too small” to reach out about.
How long does therapy last?
The length of therapy depends on the goals. A focused process around a defined problem may take between ten and twenty sessions, while work on deeper patterns takes longer. We’ll review progress together from time to time, and ending is a joint decision.
What happens in the first session?
The first session is mainly about getting to know each other: what brought you, your background, and what you would like to change. By the end you’ll have an initial picture of the proposed way of working and can decide whether it feels right for you. There is no commitment to continue.
Does everything said remain confidential?
Therapy is confidential, and the duty of confidentiality is anchored in the Psychologists Law and the Patient’s Rights Law. There are narrow exceptions set by law — mainly when there is a real risk of harm to you or to someone else, or when there is a duty to report harm to a minor or a vulnerable person. Any such exception will be explained to you in advance.
How often do we meet?
Most processes begin with a regular weekly session, which allows continuity and momentum. Later on, depending on progress, sessions can become less frequent. Each session lasts about 50 minutes.
