Types of Mental Health Treatments
Everyone cope in their own way. Here is an overview of various therapeutic methods that can assist in dealing with loss and its aftermath.
Bereaved families often face mental and emotional challenges that require professional support. Today, there are various research-based treatment methods available that can help cope with grief, trauma, and the difficult emotions that arise following a loss. Below is a brief overview of some of the common methods - so you can learn what is available and what might suit you or your family members.
Cognitive and behavioral therapies
What is this?
Cognitive processing therapy is a focused and structured treatment method specifically developed for individuals who have experienced trauma. During therapy, patients learn to identify distressing thoughts that arose following the traumatic event - such as feelings of guilt, mistrust, or the perception that the world is dangerous - and reevaluate them. Through collaborative work with the therapist and exercises between sessions, it is possible to develop more balanced perspectives and break free from the cycle of fear, avoidance and stagnation.
Who is this for?
CPT is suitable for adults who experienced a traumatic event of any kind - accident, violence, loss, or any other difficult experience - and are dealing with PTSD symptoms. The treatment has been proven effective for individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and with different types of trauma.
How long?
The treatment consists of 12 structured weekly sessions, of about an hour each. It can be conducted individually or in a group setting, and many report improvement after just a few sessions. The skills acquired during the treatment remain with you even after it ends.
What is this?
Therapy focusing on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behavior.
The basic idea is that when we change the way we think about something or the way we behave, our emotions also change. The therapy helps identify problematic thought patterns and replace them with more useful ones.
Who is this for?
This treatment may be suitable for individuals dealing with sadness, anxiety, sleep issues, or negative thought patterns that appear after a loss. It is particularly useful for those who wish to understand the connection between their thoughts and their emotions.
How long?
This treatment typically lasts between 12 to 20 sessions, with a frequency of once a week. Each session usually lasts about an hour.
What is this?
A therapeutic method focused on the safe and structured reconstruction of traumatic memory. The concept: when a person experiences trauma, they often try to avoid anything related to the event - thoughts, places, people. This avoidance perpetuates the symptoms. Prolonged exposure helps by gradually revisiting the traumatic memory under safe conditions. It allows individuals to realize they are not in danger when facing the memory.
Who is this for?
This treatment is suitable for individuals experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder - those dealing with flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of trauma-related stimuli, hyperarousal, or even depression and anxiety stemming from trauma.
How long?
Treatment typically lasts between 8 to 15 sessions, with a frequency of once or twice a week. Each session usually lasts about 90 minutes.
What is this?
The NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) method is based on the idea that the way we think and speak influences the way we act. For example, if someone describes a situation as a "test," they may behave anxiously. If they describe it as an "opportunity," they may act confidently. NLP employs certain techniques to change the way we talk to ourselves, thereby alter our behavior.
Who is this for?
NLP is primarily suitable for healthy individuals seeking to improve communication or self-confidence, or advance career goals. It is useful for avoiding inefficient habits or thought patterns. However, it is not a treatment for emotional difficulties such as severe anxiety, trauma or depression - in such cases, real psychological therapy is required.
How long?
Everything depends on the process. A few sessions can bring about change quickly, but sometimes more are needed. It depends on the depth of the goal and the pace of each individual.
What is this?
Short-term therapy (focused psychotherapy) is a time-limited process that often concentrates on a specific challenge, symptom or goal, making it highly practical for resolving current crises, reducing anxiety, and improving quality of life in a short period.
Instead of exploring the patient's entire history, the treatment focuses on one central issue or symptom that disrupts current functioning. The therapist and patient collaboratively define clear goals.
Who is this for?
The treatment is primarily suitable for individuals seeking to address a specific issue or current crisis (such as a phobia, divorce crisis, preparation for an important interview, exam anxiety) and is less suitable for those interested in exploring their personality in depth or dealing with complex difficulties that require ongoing support.
How long?
Usually up to 30 therapeutic sessions, with a defined timeframe, as the number of sessions is determined in advance.
Mind and body
What is this?
SE therapy is based on the understanding that trauma is not only registered in the mind but also in the body. When we experience a traumatic event, our body reacts with survival responses (fight, flight, freeze). If the trauma is not properly processed, this energy will remain "stuck" in the body. It can lead potentially to symptoms such as flashbacks, hypervigilance or chronic pain. The therapy helps the body release this tension by focusing on sensory experiences - what you are feeling right now, here, in your body.
Who is this for?
SE therapy is primarily suitable for individuals dealing with post-traumatic symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares or physical hypervigilance. However, it can also assist with anxiety, depression, anger outbursts or sleep disturbances. Essentially, any emotional difficulty that manifests through the body.
How long?
The duration of treatment varies depending on the type and severity of the trauma. Typically, sessions last between 45 to 90 minutes and occur once a week. Some individuals see results within a few months, while others require a longer treatment.
What is this?
Psychotherapy is a treatment method based on deep conversations between a patient and a therapist. The basic idea is that emotional difficulties often stem from ineffective thought patterns, relationships, or experiences that have not been properly processed. By exploring and reflecting on the patient's inner world within the safe space of the therapeutic relationship, it is possible to understand the roots of the difficulty and transform it. There are various approaches, some focusing on the past (dynamic), others on thought patterns (cognitive), and some on the therapeutic process itself.
Who is this for?
Psychotherapy is suitable for individuals dealing with significant emotional challenges such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, difficulties in relationships, or even a vague sense that "something is wrong." It is also useful for processing trauma, crises, or difficult experiences. Additionally, it is suitable for those who explore and seek to better understand themselves and the sources of their struggles.
How long?
Psychotherapy typically takes longer than other treatments - months or even years. Each session usually lasts between 45 to 60 minutes, and the therapy is weekly or bi-weekly. The duration of the therapy depends on the depth of the difficulty and the desire for deeper understanding.
What is this?
Biofeedback is a method based on the understanding that emotions and thoughts trigger physical responses, and that controlling these physical responses can reduce emotions and anxiety. During the treatment, the patient is connected to an electronic system that provides real-time feedback on bodily functions such as muscle tension, heart rate, sweating or blood pressure. The system displays these metrics through graphs, sounds, or images. This allows the patients to recognize their physical state and regulate it using relaxation techniques.
Who is this for?
Biofeedback may be suitable for individuals dealing with:
Anxiety disorders - general anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety
Medical issues influenced by emotional stress - such as migraines, digestive problems or tinnitus
Attention and concentration difficulties - learning self-control and focus techniques
Other emotional disorders - depression, trauma or addictions (as part of a complementary treatment)
How long?
The duration of the treatment varies according to needs, but sessions typically last between 45 to 60 minutes. The number of sessions depends on the issue and the pace of progress - some benefit from relatively short-term treatment, while others require several months.
What is this?
Hypnosis is a method of communication with a person's inner world. Contrary to Hollywood's portrayal, it is not a state of sleep or unconsciousness. On the contrary, the individual undergoing treatment is aware, with heightened concentration compared to usual. The therapist employs relaxation techniques and suggestions for pleasant thoughts and experiences to create a state of calm and tranquility. Then, the therapist works with the patient to alter negative internal scripts - such as fears, unhelpful thought patterns, or difficult emotions. The change occurs through exposure to new, more positive scripts, which the subconscious gradually prefers over the old ones.
Who is this for?
This treatment may be suitable for individuals dealing with fears, anxiety, sleep issues, negative thought patterns, or internal scripts that hinder their lives. It is particularly useful when a person wishes to examine what is not working.
How long?
The duration of the treatment varies according to needs. Typically, individual sessions last between 60 to 90 minutes. The number of sessions depends on the type of issue and progress. Some are resolved after a few sessions, while others require more extended treatment.
What is this?
Neurofeedback is a method that measures brain activity in real-time and provides feedback, usually visual or auditory, aimed at helping the patient learn to relax. For example, a person connected to electrodes can see his or her brain's electrical waves on a screen or hear them, and can practice relaxation and gain control over his or her brain.
Who is this for?
Neurofeedback is suitable for individuals dealing with attention and concentration difficulties (ADHD), anxiety, depression, or any challenge related to brain activity. It is especially useful for those who cannot take medication due to side effects or other reasons.
How long?
Neurofeedback treatment typically lasts several months, with weekly sessions. Each session usually lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. It is a training process, similar to sports, thus the patient needs to be consistent to achieve results.
What is this?
Guided imagery is a method that utilizes the power of imagination for therapeutic purposes. In this framework, the patient is guided to vividly and tangibly imagine images and scenarios. The imagination affects the body - the heart rate slows down, the blood pressure decreases.
Who is this for?
Guided imagery is suitable for adults and children seeking relief from stress, anxiety or chronic pain. It is also useful for coping with anxiety, phobias, depression, addictions and more.
How long?
Guided imagery workshops or sessions typically last between 45 to 90 minutes. You can also practice on your own at home - even 15–20 minutes a day can be beneficial.
What is this?
Focusing is a method for understanding ourselves through the body. Instead of thinking about a problem, attention is directed to how the problem is felt in the body - in the chest, abdomen, head. It helps creating an internal dialogue with the issue to understand what the body is signaling to us.
Who is this for?
Proper focus is suitable for almost everyone; it simply requires practice. It is especially useful for those who struggle to understand their emotions, for individuals seeking insights, or for those who wish to feel more connected to their body and inner self.
How long?
Focusing is not "therapy" in the traditional sense - it is an acquired skill that requires practice. Workshops or classes typically last between 60 to 90 minutes. Home practice can start with 10 minutes and gradually expand.
What is this?
Mindfulness is the practice of awareness of the present moment, the sensory experience of "here and now," without judgment or attempts to change it. The practice involves focusing on a specific anchor (such as breathing or bodily sensations) and gently bringing the mind back to the anchor whenever it wanders.
Who is this for?
Mindfulness is suitable for individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, low mood, sleep issues, or difficulties in emotional regulation. It is also beneficial for those who wish to stop overthinking and give their mind a chance to rest. Essentially, it is like a gym for the brain - works gradually, requires persistence, and yields results over time.
How long?
Mindfulness is not "therapy" in the traditional sense - it is a practice you engage in daily on your own. Most structured programs (like MBSR) last 8 weeks, with weekly sessions of about an hour and a half, in addition to daily practice at home (usually 20–45 minutes). However, you can also start on your own with YouTube videos or a community group.
Experiential therapies
What is this?
Nature therapy is a treatment method that takes place outdoors, in the open. When a person goes out into nature, works in a garden, takes a walk, or simply sits and observes, it evokes significant emotions and experiences that can be processed through therapy.
Who is this for?
Nature therapy is suitable for children, at-risk youth, adults or families who have experienced trauma, and adults seeking personal growth through nature.
How long?
The duration of the treatment varies according to needs. A group therapy may include just a few sessions, while personal therapy can last months. All sessions take place in nature - in a park, a forest or outdoors.
What is this?
Animal-assisted emotional therapy (zootherapy) is a method that integrates pets or farm animals into the psychotherapy process. It is designed to enhance emotional, social and cognitive skills.
The animal enables the establishment of a therapeutic connection quickly, bypassing communication barriers and limitations. The treatment helps reduce stress through petting and playing with animals, which release endorphins and promote relaxation.
Who is this for?
The method is particularly effective for children, teenagers, and adults dealing with anxiety, trauma, attention and concentration difficulties, and challenges in emotional regulation.
How long?
Animal-assisted therapy is a dynamic process tailored to the individuals and their challenges. A short-term series of goal-oriented treatments (such as reducing specific anxiety) typically lasts between 12 to 24 sessions (approximately 3 to 6 months). Long-term therapy, in cases of complex emotional difficulties, sensory regulation or communication issues, may even last a year or more, depending on the pace of progress.
What is this?
Phototherapy is an emotional therapy method that uses photography as part of the therapeutic process. The concept: images evoke emotions and memories that are difficult to express in words. During therapy, the patients can bring existing photos or take new ones, and the therapist will guide them through an emotional exploration of what they see, feel, and remember. It is a non-verbal communication tool that helps bypass psychological defenses and access deeper emotions.
Who is this for?
Phototherapy is suitable for individuals seeking to connect with their emotions, process experiences, or develop a clear understanding of significant life events. It is particularly useful for those who struggle to express emotions through words. However, in cases of acute emotional distress, phototherapy should complement psychological treatment rather than replace it.
How long?
The duration of the treatment varies according to needs. Typically, sessions last between 50 to 90 minutes, and the therapy is weekly or bi-weekly. The overall treatment duration depends on the process - some achieve results within a few months.
Trauma processing
What is this?
EMDR is a treatment method based on the idea that traumatic memories are "stuck" in the brain.
This is a focused psychological treatment proven to be particularly effective in addressing post-trauma (PTSD), anxiety and phobias. During the therapy, the patient briefly recalls traumatic or distressing memories while simultaneously undergoing bilateral brain stimulation (such as eye movements, sounds or taps), which helps the brain reprocess the experience and reduce its emotional intensity.
Who is this for?
Adults, teenagers and children experiencing emotional distress due to past events or present-day anxieties. The treatment is particularly effective for those seeking a focused and short-term solution, without requiring prolonged discussion of the event's details as in traditional psychotherapy. EMDR is especially suitable for individuals dealing with trauma or post-trauma and difficult past events. It is also effective for addressing anxiety disorders, depression, phobias or addictions. This approach is ideal for those looking for a relatively quick treatment.
How long?
The duration of a typical EMDR treatment for a focused event ranges between 6 to 12 sessions, with each session usually lasting between 50 to 90 minutes. However, the total duration can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the issue.
What is this?
Mind-body therapies are based on the premise that there is a close and constant interplay between the mental and emotional states and the physical health and functioning. These treatments aim to harness the power of the mind and emotions to alleviate physical symptoms, while simultaneously utilizing the body and senses to release emotional barriers and mental stress.
Who is this for?
Mind-body therapies are suitable for almost everyone, at any age, and at any stage of life. This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals seeking comprehensive and deep-rooted solutions, rather than just "firefighting" or symptomatic treatment.
How long?
The duration of the treatment varies significantly depending on the type of method, the patient's goal, and the severity of the issue.
Accompaniment and guidance
What is this?
Personal coaching is a guidance method based on the assumption that all individuals possess their own strengths and abilities that can help them achieve their goals. The personal coach does not provide solutions but rather creates a framework that helps the trainee focus, maintain motivation and act efficiently to achieve the objectives they have set for themselves. The process includes identifying clear goals, understanding obstacles along the way, defining steps and implementing them.
Who is this for?
Personal coaching is suitable for healthy and functional individuals seeking improvement in a specific aspect of life - such as career, studies, personal development or relationships. It is particularly useful for those who feel stuck and know exactly where they want to go but struggle to take the first steps or stay on track.
Personal coaching is not suitable for individuals dealing with deep emotional challenges (depression, anxiety, trauma), significantly low self-esteem, or complex interpersonal difficulties - in such cases, psychological treatment is required.
How long?
Personal coaching typically includes 10-12 sessions, with each session lasting between 60 to 90 minutes. Sessions are usually held once a week. In some cases, there is communication with the coach between the sessions (by phone, email) to provide updates on the progress.
What is this?
Parent guidance is a psycho-educational counseling process where parents acquire tools to address the challenges of raising children, improve family communication, and resolve behavioral issues. The treatment focuses on equipping parents with certain skills. It often enables significant changes in children's behavior without requiring individual therapy for the children themselves.
Who is this for?
Parents of children of all ages (from early childhood to adolescence) who experience difficulties such as tantrums, emotional regulation challenges, social issues, anxiety, attention and concentration difficulties, or family transitions.
How long?
The duration of the parent guidance process varies depending on the complexity of the challenge, the therapeutic approach, and the progress rate of the parents, but it typically ranges from several weeks to a few months.
What is this?
Employment guidance is a personalized process tailored to the needs, skills and personal aspirations of each individual. Its aim is to facilitate labor market integration or reintegration. This process includes the identification of strengths, resume writing, interview preparation, targeted job search and professional support.
Who is this for?
For job seekers facing barriers or constraints. Comprehensive support is provided, including work on removing barriers and assistance in finding suitable employment.
How long?
The duration of the employment guidance process varies and depends on the type of program and the needs of each individual, but it typically ranges from several months to a year.
What is this?
Spiritual accompaniment is a process of emotional and mental support that helps individuals facing crises, illness, loss, or significant life changes. The goal is to provide a listening ear, assist in finding meaning, and strengthen inner resilience by connecting to the unique spiritual resources of the individual (not necessarily related to religion).
Who is this for?
Support is provided to anyone facing challenging crossroads, such as coping with a severe or chronic illness, challenges in old age, end-of-life stages, loss, bereavement, or personal life crises.
How long?
The process of spiritual guidance is not predetermined and depends entirely on the needs and goals of the individual. The duration can range from a few focused sessions during a crisis to several months or years as part of a gradual growth process.
Focused therapies
What is this?
Addiction treatment typically includes a combination of psychotherapy, support groups, and sometimes medication. This process helps identify patterns, develop tools for emotional regulation and cope with triggers.
Who is this for?
Addiction treatment is suitable for anyone who feels that a substance, behavior, or impulse negatively affects his or her quality of life, health or the relationships with those around him or her. The treatment is personalized according to the type of dependency and its severity.
How long?
The duration of the treatment varies according to personal needs and depends on the type of framework and the severity of the condition. It can range from several weeks to several months, and in complex cases, even a year or more.
What is this?
As part of the treatment, an attempt is made to identify the psychological conflicts underlying the eating disorder, recognize what the disordered eating patterns express, and replace them with verbal expression of emotional pain. Additionally, the treatment facilitates the processing of traumatic events and emotional difficulties that led to the development of the disorder and contribute to its persistence.
Who is this for?
The treatment is suitable for all ages.