Affirmative therapy is a type of therapy that is used to support and empower individuals who identify as members of marginalized communities, including but not limited to the LGBTQ+ community, people of color, and individuals with disabilities. This type of therapy seeks to validate individuals’ experiences and help them to build resilience in the face of societal oppression. Here are three examples of people who could benefit from affirmative therapy.

At AMR Therapy and Support Services, we understand that members of the LGBT community often face stigma, discrimination, and marginalization, which can lead to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. That’s why we use verbal and nonverbal techniques to create an affirming stance towards all members of the LGBT community, recognizing and celebrating their diversity and individuality.

One of the key elements of affirming therapy is validation. We understand that members of the LGBT community may face a lack of validation and support from their family, friends, and society as a whole. Our therapy sessions are designed to create a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can feel heard, understood, and validated for who they are.

Another important aspect of affirming therapy is advocacy. We work to advocate for the needs and rights of the LGBT community, recognizing that discrimination and marginalization can have a significant impact on mental health. Our therapists are trained to provide resources and support to individuals who may be struggling with issues such as coming out, transitioning, and navigating relationships and social situations.

Research has shown that affirming therapy can be effective in improving mental health outcomes for members of the LGBT community. It can help individuals to feel more empowered, confident, and self-aware, as well as providing them with the tools and support they need to navigate the challenges of everyday life.

If you are a member of the LGBT community and are looking for an affirming therapy experience, we are here to support you. Our team of providers offers a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to explore their identities and experiences. Come experience the power of an affirming therapy today and take the first step towards improved mental health and wellbeing.

Attachment-based therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on the importance of early childhood relationships and how they shape our ability to form healthy relationships throughout our lives. This approach is based on the theory of attachment, which was first introduced by psychologist John Bowlby in the 1950s. Bowlby believed that attachment is a fundamental human need and that disruptions in attachment can lead to significant impacts on mental health.

Over the years, the theory of attachment has been further developed and refined by psychologists and researchers, including Mary Ainsworth and Mary Main. Their research has shown that attachment patterns can be categorized into three main types: secure, insecure-avoidant, and insecure-anxious. Individuals with a secure attachment style are comfortable with intimacy and can trust others, while those with an insecure attachment style may struggle with trust and have difficulty forming meaningful relationships.

Attachment-based therapy is an evidence-based approach that draws on the theory of attachment to help individuals develop healthy attachment patterns and form stronger, more meaningful relationships. The therapy process involves working with a therapist to explore early childhood experiences and how they may have impacted attachment patterns. Through this process, individuals can gain a greater understanding of their attachment patterns and work to develop new, more adaptive ways of relating to others.

Research has shown that attachment-based therapy can be effective in treating a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders. It has also been shown to be effective in improving interpersonal relationships, increasing emotional regulation, and promoting overall wellbeing. In fact, attachment-based therapy has become a widely accepted and evidence-based approach to treating a range of mental health issues.

At AMR Therapy, our team of providers is trained in attachment-based therapy and can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals. We understand the importance of healthy attachment patterns and can help you develop the skills and tools you need to form stronger, more meaningful relationships. If you are struggling with issues related to attachment, such as difficulty forming meaningful relationships, trust issues, or a history of trauma, attachment-based therapy may be a helpful approach for you. Take the first step towards healing and building stronger relationships by reaching out to us today.

Attachment-based therapy is a therapeutic approach that focuses on understanding and improving the attachment patterns and relationships of individuals.

Behavioral therapy is a type of psychological treatment that focuses on changing unwanted behaviors and increasing desired ones. At AMR Therapy and Support Services, we offer a range of evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Our team of compassionate providers is here to support you on your journey towards healing and growth, with personalized treatment plans tailored to meet your unique needs and goals.

CBT can help you identify and change negative or distorted thoughts that contribute to negative emotions and behaviors. DBT focuses on enhancing emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, and self-awareness. And with ACT, you’ll learn to accept difficult thoughts and emotions, developing mindfulness skills and values-based action for greater psychological flexibility.

Eclectic therapy is a therapeutic approach that combines techniques and principles from different therapeutic modalities to create a customized treatment plan that meets the unique needs of each client. This approach is based on the idea that there is no single therapy that works for everyone and that different people respond better to different types of therapy.

The therapist who uses eclectic therapy is not limited to one specific approach but instead is free to draw upon various theoretical orientations, treatment techniques, and interventions. For example, a therapist may incorporate elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and humanistic therapy into a treatment plan.

The use of eclectic therapy allows the therapist to create a highly personalized treatment plan that is tailored to the client’s specific needs, preferences, and goals. It can be particularly useful for clients who may not respond well to a specific therapy or who have complex issues that require a multifaceted approach.

Research suggests that eclectic therapy can be highly effective for a range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and relationship issues. However, like any therapy, success ultimately depends on the skills and experience of the therapist and the willingness and effort of the client.

Overall, eclectic therapy offers a flexible and adaptable approach to therapy that can help clients achieve their goals and improve their overall well-being. If you are looking for a highly personalized and effective therapy approach that can address your unique needs and concerns, it’s time to take action and reach out to AMR Therapy and Support Services. With our expertise in eclectic therapy and commitment to providing customized treatment plans, we can help you achieve your therapy goals and improve your overall well-being.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach that is used to treat various mental health disorders, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is a form of exposure therapy that combines cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques with bilateral stimulation, which can be in the form of eye movements, tapping, or sounds.

EMDR was first developed in the late 1980s by Francine Shapiro, a clinical psychologist. She discovered that moving her eyes back and forth while thinking about a disturbing memory helped to reduce her emotional distress. Through research and practice, she refined this technique into what is now known as EMDR therapy.

The practice of EMDR typically involves an eight-phase treatment approach. The first phase involves taking a thorough history of the client’s presenting problem and establishing a therapeutic relationship. The second phase involves teaching the client relaxation techniques and other coping skills that will help them manage distress during the processing phase.

The third phase involves identifying the target memory or memories that the client wishes to process. These can be memories related to a traumatic event or other distressing experiences that are causing current symptoms. The fourth phase involves desensitization, where the client is asked to recall the target memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This is typically done through eye movements, but it can also be done through tapping or sounds.

The fifth phase involves installing positive beliefs and associations related to the target memory. This involves identifying a positive belief or affirmation that the client would like to associate with the target memory and repeating it while engaging in bilateral stimulation. The sixth phase involves body scan, where the client is asked to scan their body for any residual physical sensations or emotions related to the target memory. 

The seventh phase involves closure, where the therapist helps the client return to a state of calm and relaxation. The final phase involves reevaluation, where the client and therapist assess the progress that has been made and determine if any additional processing is needed.

EMDR therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including PTSD, anxiety disorders, depression, and phobias. It has also been used to help clients with issues related to grief and loss, addiction, and self-esteem. The length of EMDR therapy can vary depending on the individual and their specific needs. Some clients may only require a few sessions, while others may need more extensive treatment. Typically, sessions last between 60-90 minutes.

There is a growing body of research supporting the effectiveness of EMDR therapy. A recent meta-analysis found that EMDR therapy was significantly more effective than placebo or non-specific interventions for the treatment of PTSD symptoms. Another meta-analysis found that EMDR therapy was more effective than CBT in reducing symptoms of depression.

EMDR therapy is a highly effective and evidence-based treatment for a wide range of mental health conditions, particularly PTSD. If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma or other mental health issues, consider seeking out an EMDR therapist for treatment.

To become an EMDR provider, a person must first be a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychologist, social worker, counselor, or psychiatrist. In addition to their initial training in their field, they must undergo specialized training in EMDR therapy.

The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) is the organization that sets the standards for EMDR training and certification. 

To become a certified EMDR therapist, a mental health professional must complete the following steps:

1. Complete a basic training program: The first step in becoming an EMDR therapist is to complete a basic training program that is approved by EMDRIA. This training typically consists of 20 hours of didactic instruction and 20 hours of supervised practice.
2. Obtain consultation hours: After completing the basic training program, the mental health professional must obtain consultation hours from an EMDRIA-approved consultant. The consultant provides guidance and feedback as the therapist begins to use EMDR therapy with clients.
3. Complete additional training: EMDRIA requires certified EMDR therapists to complete at least 12 hours of continuing education in EMDR therapy every two years.
4. Pass a certification exam: To become a certified EMDR therapist, the mental health professional must pass an exam that tests their knowledge and skills in EMDR therapy.

Once a mental health professional has completed all of these steps, they can become a certified EMDR therapist and provide this therapy to their clients. It is important to note that not all mental health professionals who provide EMDR therapy are certified. Certification is not required to use EMDR therapy, but it is recommended as it indicates that the therapist has met a high standard of training and expertise in this technique.

At AMR Therapy and Support Services, our humanistic therapists will create a supportive, non-judgmental environment to help you gain greater insight into your own unique perspective. We believe that each individual has the capacity to find their own path towards personal growth and healing, and we are committed to helping you achieve your goals. Humanistic therapy is a type of therapy that emphasizes empathy, personal growth, and self-awareness. It is often used to help people who are struggling with issues related to their self-esteem, relationships, and overall well-being. 

One type of humanistic therapy is client-centered therapy, which places the client at the center of the therapeutic process. The therapist provides a safe, supportive environment and encourages the client to explore their own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Client-centered therapy has been shown to be effective in treating trauma and relationship difficulties.

Gestalt therapy is another type of humanistic therapy that focuses on the present moment and the client’s experience in the here and now. Gestalt therapy helps individuals become more aware of their thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations, and encourages them to take responsibility for their own actions and experiences.

Existential therapy is a type of humanistic therapy that explores the client’s search for meaning and purpose in life. Existential therapy encourages individuals to examine their own beliefs and values and to take responsibility for their own choices and actions.

At AMR Therapy and Support Services, our humanistic therapists are trained in a variety of approaches and will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and goals. We believe that every individual has the capacity for personal growth and healing, and we are committed to helping you find your own path towards a more authentic and fulfilling life.

Integrative and holistic therapy involves a collaborative and personalized approach to mental health treatment that integrates different techniques and modalities from various therapeutic traditions. This approach recognizes that individuals are unique and have different needs, and it seeks to tailor treatment to meet those specific needs.

Integrative and holistic therapy often draws from traditional psychotherapy approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, and humanistic therapy, as well as complementary and alternative therapies, such as mindfulness, meditation, acupuncture, yoga, and nutrition. The use of these different modalities is designed to address the various dimensions of an individual’s well-being and to promote healing and growth.

In integrative and holistic therapy, the therapist and the client work together to explore the underlying issues that may be contributing to the client’s distress, such as past traumas, relationship difficulties, and negative thought patterns. The therapist helps the client develop a greater awareness of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and encourages them to identify and challenge limiting beliefs and behaviors.

Through this process, individuals can gain insight into their patterns and develop new coping strategies that enable them to move forward in a more positive and productive way. Integrative and holistic therapy aims to help individuals achieve a greater sense of balance, wholeness, and vitality in their lives.

Psychodynamic therapy is a form of talk therapy that originated in the late 1800s and early 1900s with the work of Sigmund Freud, who is considered the father of psychoanalysis. Freud developed the idea that our unconscious mind, which we are not aware of, can influence our behavior and emotions. He believed that people’s past experiences, particularly those in childhood, can shape their personality and impact their relationships.

Psychodynamic therapy is grounded in the idea that people’s behavior and emotions are shaped by unconscious conflicts, and by bringing these conflicts into conscious awareness, individuals can work to resolve them. During therapy sessions, clients are encouraged to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe and supportive environment. The therapist helps the client to identify patterns in their behavior, thoughts, and emotions, which can help them gain insight into their past experiences and the impact they have on their current life.

One of the key techniques used in psychodynamic therapy is free association, where clients are encouraged to talk freely without censoring themselves, which allows them to access their unconscious thoughts and emotions. Another technique is transference, where clients transfer their feelings and attitudes towards significant people in their past onto the therapist. This provides an opportunity for the client to work through these emotions and resolve them.

Psychodynamic therapy can be helpful for a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, and trauma. It is particularly useful for individuals who have experienced early childhood trauma or who struggle with long-standing patterns of behavior that they are unable to change. There is a growing body of research that supports the effectiveness of psychodynamic therapy. A meta-analysis of over 50 studies found that psychodynamic therapy was as effective as other forms of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, for treating depression and anxiety. Additionally, a long-term follow-up study found that the benefits of psychodynamic therapy were sustained over time, with clients reporting continued improvement in their mental health even years after therapy had ended.

Sex-positive therapy is a form of psychotherapy that is focused on improving sexual function and satisfaction, as well as addressing the emotional and psychological factors that can impact sexual health. While sex therapy is often used to treat sexual dysfunction or sexual problems, it can also be used to improve relationships by addressing issues related to communication, intimacy, and emotional connection. 

The aim of sex therapy with AMR is to help individuals explore and understand their sexuality in a positive and affirming way. It provides a safe and supportive space for individuals to talk openly about their sexual desires, preferences, and experiences without judgment or shame. Sex-positive therapy recognizes that sexuality is a normal and healthy aspect of human life and helps clients to embrace and celebrate their unique sexual identity.

At AMR Therapy and Support Services, our therapists are trained in sex-positive therapy and are experienced in helping clients explore and understand their sexuality. Our therapists provide a non-judgmental and confidential space for clients to discuss their sexual concerns and explore their desires. We understand that everyone’s experience with sex is unique, and we believe that everyone should be able to authentically express themselves.

Sex-positive therapy can be helpful for a range of sexual concerns, including low desire, sexual dysfunction, sexual anxiety, and relationship issues related to sex. Our therapists work with clients to create a personalized treatment plan that meets their unique needs and goals. Treatment may involve exploring sexual desires and fantasies, addressing shame or guilt related to sex, and developing communication and relationship skills.

Research has shown that sex-positive therapy can be effective in improving sexual functioning and satisfaction, reducing sexual anxiety and shame, and enhancing relationship satisfaction. Our therapists are committed to providing evidence-based, compassionate care to help clients achieve their sexual goals and improve their overall quality of life.

Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) was first developed in the 1980s by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg at the Brief Family Therapy Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. SFT was developed to focus on solutions to problems, utilizing the client’s own strengths and resources to create a better future. SFT is a brief form of therapy that typically lasts between 6 and 12 sessions. It is a goal-oriented and practical approach that emphasizes the client’s strengths and resources. The therapist works collaboratively with the client to identify their goals and then develops practical solutions that can be implemented in the present and future.

Research has shown that SFT can be effective in improving mental health outcomes. A meta-analysis of 46 studies on SFT found that it was effective in treating a variety of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, and trauma-related symptoms. Another study found that SFT was effective in improving the psychological well-being of cancer patients.

SFT is also a cost-effective form of therapy. A study comparing the cost-effectiveness of SFT to traditional forms of therapy found that SFT was more cost-effective for clients with depression and anxiety disorders.

At AMR Therapy and Support Services, our therapists are trained in SFT and use this approach to help clients achieve their goals and improve their mental health. We work collaboratively with clients to identify their strengths and resources, and then develop practical solutions that can be implemented in the present and future. Our therapists are committed to providing evidence-based and compassionate care to help clients achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.

If you’re looking for a practical and solution-focused approach to therapy, we encourage you to reach out to us at AMR Therapy and Support Services. Our therapists are experienced in using SFT to help clients achieve their goals and improve their mental health. We’re here to support you on your journey towards a brighter future.

Somatic Therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on the connection between the mind and the body to help heal the effects of trauma and other mental and emotional health issues. It is a body-centric approach that recognizes that our thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations are interconnected. The history of Somatic Therapy can be traced back to the work of Wilhelm Reich, a psychoanalyst who believed that emotions were stored in the body and that releasing this energy could lead to emotional healing. Later, the work of Peter Levine and other pioneers of Somatic Therapy expanded upon Reich’s ideas and developed new techniques for working with the body in therapy.

Somatic Therapy can be helpful for a wide range of mental and emotional health issues, including trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction. It can help people access emotions and memories that may be trapped in the body, allowing them to process and release these experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Somatic Therapy can also be helpful for improving self-esteem, body image, and sense of control. By working with the body, clients can develop a greater awareness and appreciation for their physical selves, which can translate into greater self-confidence and self-worth.

Research has shown that Somatic Therapy can be effective in improving mental health outcomes. One study found that Somatic Therapy was effective in reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in female survivors of sexual assault. Another study found that Somatic Therapy was effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in patients with chronic pain.

If you’re looking for a body-centric approach to therapy that can help you heal from trauma and other mental and emotional health issues, we encourage you to reach out to us at AMR Therapy and Support Services. Our therapists are experienced in using Somatic Therapy to help clients achieve their goals and improve their quality of life.

Systems Therapy is a revolutionary approach to therapy that recognizes the interconnectedness of individuals with the systems in which they exist. It goes beyond individual behavior and focuses on the broader context of their lives, including their personal relationships, behavior patterns, and life choices. This approach understands that individuals are influenced by the systems and structures that surround them, such as family, culture, and society.

The roots of Systems Therapy can be traced back to the 1950s and 1960s when family therapists began exploring the impact of family dynamics on individual behavior and mental health. Since then, this approach has expanded to include other types of systems, such as workplace and community settings. Systems Therapy can help individuals with a wide range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, addiction, and relationship problems.

The goal of Systems Therapy is to identify and address the underlying dynamics and patterns within these systems that contribute to an individual’s problems. By understanding how these systems interact and influence one another, individuals can find lasting solutions to their issues. This approach is particularly effective in improving communication and relationships within families, workplaces, and communities.

Research has shown that Systems Therapy can be highly effective in improving mental health outcomes. One study found that Systems Therapy was effective in reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety in adolescents. Another study found that Systems Therapy was effective in improving family relationships and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in families of children with developmental disabilities.

Overall, Systems Therapy offers a unique and valuable approach to therapy that can help individuals to better understand and navigate the complex systems in which they exist. If you are struggling with mental health issues or relationship problems, consider exploring the benefits of Systems Therapy with a trained and experienced therapist at AMR.