What Kinds of Therapy Styles Are Popular?

When seeking therapy, it can be overwhelming to navigate the many different approaches available. Each therapy style is designed to help individuals in unique ways, and finding the right fit can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of treatment.

At Rosson Therapy, Ashley Rosson, LPC, uses a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) with a humanistic approach to provide personalized and compassionate care. These evidence-based therapies help clients develop coping skills, regulate emotions, and cultivate self-awareness in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.

📞 Call Rosson Therapy at 256-434-1664 to schedule a counseling session and start your journey toward healing.

Why Are There Different Types of Therapy?

Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all approach—everyone has different needs, personalities, and experiences. The diversity of therapy styles reflects the complexity of human emotions and mental health conditions.

Some therapy styles are structured and skill-based, while others focus on self-exploration and emotional processing. Many therapists integrate multiple approaches to create a treatment plan tailored to the individual.

Below, we explore some of the most popular and effective therapy styles, including the ones used at Rosson Therapy.

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

What Is CBT?

CBT is one of the most widely used therapy approaches. It focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to emotional distress.

How It Works:

✔ Helps clients recognize cognitive distortions (irrational or unhelpful thoughts).

✔ Encourages behavioral changes to support positive thinking.

✔ Uses practical strategies like journaling, thought records, and exposure therapy.

Who Benefits from CBT?

✔ Individuals with anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, and phobias.

✔ Those struggling with self-doubt and negative self-talk.

✔ People looking for structured, goal-oriented therapy.

Why Ashley Rosson Uses CBT:

CBT is effective in helping clients gain control over their thoughts and emotions. It provides clear techniques for managing stress, anxiety, and self-defeating behaviors, making it a valuable part of therapy at Rosson Therapy.

2. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

What Is DBT?

DBT is a modified form of CBT originally developed for people with intense emotions and self-destructive behaviors. It emphasizes emotional regulation, mindfulness, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness.

How It Works:

✔ Uses mindfulness techniques to help clients stay present.

✔ Teaches emotional regulation skills to manage overwhelming feelings.

✔ Encourages healthy coping mechanisms instead of destructive behaviors.

✔ Helps clients build stronger relationships through effective communication.

Who Benefits from DBT?

✔ Individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD).

✔ Those experiencing chronic emotional distress, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts.

✔ Anyone struggling with intense mood swings, impulsivity, or relationship difficulties.

Why Ashley Rosson Uses DBT:

DBT is especially helpful for individuals who experience intense emotional ups and downs. It provides practical tools for managing stress, interpersonal conflict, and overwhelming emotions, making it an essential part of therapy at Rosson Therapy.

3. Humanistic Therapy

What Is Humanistic Therapy?

Humanistic therapy focuses on self-exploration, personal growth, and understanding one's own values and emotions. It emphasizes the innate goodness and potential in every individual.

How It Works:

✔ Encourages self-reflection and personal meaning.

✔ Uses unconditional positive regard to create a safe and accepting environment.

✔ Focuses on authenticity and personal empowerment.

Who Benefits from Humanistic Therapy?

✔ Individuals struggling with low self-esteem or identity issues.

✔ Those who feel stuck, lost, or disconnected from themselves.

✔ People looking for a compassionate and self-guided therapeutic approach.

Why Ashley Rosson Uses a Humanistic Approach:

A humanistic approach helps clients feel seen, heard, and valued. By integrating humanistic principles into CBT and DBT, Ashley Rosson ensures that clients receive both practical tools and emotional support, allowing them to explore their thoughts while feeling accepted and empowered.

4. Psychodynamic Therapy

What Is Psychodynamic Therapy?

Psychodynamic therapy explores how past experiences, unconscious thoughts, and childhood relationships shape present behaviors.

How It Works:

✔ Examines early life experiences and patterns.

✔ Encourages self-awareness of unconscious thoughts.

✔ Helps process deep-seated emotions and relational issues.

Who Benefits from Psychodynamic Therapy?

✔ Individuals with long-term emotional difficulties.

✔ Those struggling with relationship patterns or unresolved trauma.

✔ People interested in deep self-reflection.

How It Differs from CBT & DBT:

Unlike CBT and DBT, which focus on present thoughts and behaviors, psychodynamic therapy dives into the past to uncover root causes of emotional struggles.

5. Person-Centered Therapy

What Is Person-Centered Therapy?

Developed by Carl Rogers, this approach is based on the belief that clients are the experts on their own lives. The therapist provides guidance in a supportive, non-directive way.

How It Works:

✔ Uses active listening and reflection.

✔ Emphasizes self-acceptance and self-growth.

✔ Focuses on creating a nonjudgmental, supportive space.

Who Benefits from Person-Centered Therapy?

✔ People who need emotional validation and self-acceptance.

✔ Individuals looking for a gentle, supportive therapeutic relationship.

✔ Those seeking personal growth rather than symptom management.

How It Relates to Ashley Rosson’s Approach:

Ashley Rosson integrates person-centered principles into her humanistic therapy style, ensuring clients feel valued, heard, and empowered to make their own choices.

6. Mindfulness-Based Therapy

What Is Mindfulness-Based Therapy?

This therapy incorporates meditation and mindfulness practices to help individuals manage stress, anxiety, and emotional distress.

How It Works:

✔ Teaches present-moment awareness.

✔ Reduces rumination and overthinking.

✔ Helps build acceptance of thoughts and emotions without judgment.

Who Benefits from Mindfulness-Based Therapy?

✔ Individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, and stress.

✔ Those wanting to develop a greater sense of calm and clarity.

✔ People interested in meditation and relaxation techniques.

How It Complements CBT & DBT:

Both CBT and DBT incorporate mindfulness techniques, making it a natural fit for Ashley Rosson’s approach. Mindfulness helps clients stay present, reduce anxiety, and build emotional resilience.

Finding the Right Therapy for You

There is no single "best" type of therapy—what works depends on your needs, personality, and goals. Many therapists, including Ashley Rosson, use an integrative approach that combines different methods for a well-rounded, personalized experience.

If you’re unsure where to start, therapy can help you explore different techniques to see what resonates best with you.

📞 Call Rosson Therapy at 256-434-1664 to schedule a counseling session and find the approach that best supports your mental health journey.

Final Thoughts: The Power of Therapy

Therapy is not just about treating mental health conditions—it’s about personal growth, emotional resilience, and self-discovery. Whether through CBT, DBT, humanistic therapy, or other approaches, finding the right therapeutic style can make all the difference in your healing journey.

At Rosson Therapy, we’re committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual’s needs.

📞 Take the first step toward healing—call Rosson Therapy at 256-434-1664 today.