If you've ever looked into therapy, you've likely come across a slew of acronyms: CBT, DBT, EMDR, ACT, ERP… It can feel overwhelming trying to make sense of what these mean and which approach is “right.” The truth is, therapy isn't one-size-fits-all. Different approaches offer different tools and understanding a few key aspects of each can empower you to make informed decisions that best support your mental health and healing journey. 

Let’s take a closer look at three commonly used, evidence-based therapy types: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) as well as a few other common approaches. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) 

CBT is one of the most widely researched and practiced forms of therapy. It’s based on the concept that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected. By learning to identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns, people can change how they feel and respond to...