Evidence-Based Therapy Approaches in Bella Vista

Choosing the Right Therapy Approach

 

At Potentialz Unlimited in Bella Vista, we use evidence-based therapies approved by the Australian Psychological Society (APS). During your initial assessment, your psychologist will recommend the most appropriate approach for your specific needs.

 

All our therapy approaches are available for:

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• Individual therapy - Adults and adolescents

• Couples therapy - Relationship-focused work (some approaches)

• Family therapy - Family system work (selected approaches)

• Child therapy - Age-appropriate methods including play therapy

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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) targets thought patterns and behaviours to alleviate depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. To learn more visit The Benefits of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) encourages individuals to acknowledge their emotions and thoughts, committing to a meaningful life, which has been shown to benefit those struggling with depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. To learn more visit Living a Meaningful Life with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

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Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) takes a holistic approach, teaching emotional regulation, relationship improvement, and crisis management skills, with success in treating borderline personality disorder and eating disorders. To learn more visit DBT - A New Approach to Mental Health

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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) utilizes sensory stimuli to process traumatic memories, demonstrating efficacy in addressing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety. To learn more visit Understanding EMDR Therapy.

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Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) focuses on present-moment awareness, reducing stress and preventing depression relapse. To learn more visit Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT).

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Behaviour Therapy (BT) concentrates on modifying behaviours to combat anxiety, depression, and addiction.

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Exposure Therapy, a subset of behaviour therapy, involves gradual exposure to fears in a controlled environment, effectively treating anxiety disorders, including phobias and PTSD.

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Grounding Techniques offer a valuable coping mechanism for individuals overwhelmed by anxiety.

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Solution-focused therapy prioritizes problem-solving, addressing anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.

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Narrative therapy takes a unique approach, empowering individuals to reframe their life stories, effectively treating trauma, abuse, and addiction. To learn more visit Narrative Therapy: Rewriting Your Life Story.

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Family systems therapy focuses on understanding the role of family dynamics on the problems faced by individuals.

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Trauma-based CBT empowers clients to overcome traumatic events through the process of reframing negative thought patterns and beliefs associated with the experience. To learn more visit Recovering from Trauma with Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT).

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Play therapy offers a unique outlet for children to convey their emotions and thoughts surrounding challenging events, utilizing play as a catalyst for expression and healing. To learn more visit Unlocking the Power of Play Therapy.

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How Your Psychologist Chooses Your Therapy Approach

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Your therapist selects approaches based on:

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Your Presenting Concerns:

 

• Anxiety, OCD, phobias:** CBT and exposure therapy are most effective

• Trauma and PTSD: EMDR and trauma-focused CBT show best results

• Emotional regulation difficulties: DBT provides specific skills

• Values and meaning concerns: ACT helps with psychological flexibility

• Childhood emotional/behavioral issues:** Play therapy for ages 3-12

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Research Evidence:

We use only therapies with strong research support for specific conditions. Your psychologist stays updated on the latest evidence.

 

Your Preferences:
 

Some people prefer structured approaches (CBT), while others benefit from experiential methods (EMDR, ACT). We discuss options with you.

 

Your Age and Development:
 

• Children 3-12: Play therapy, behavioral approaches

• Adolescents: CBT, DBT, ACT adapted for teens

• Adults: Full range of evidence-based approaches

• Older adults: Age-appropriate modifications

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Most therapy involves combining elements from multiple approaches tailored to your unique situation.

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​Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy Approaches

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Q: How do I know which therapy approach is right for me?

A: Your psychologist will assess your concerns, goals, and preferences during the initial session and recommend the most appropriate evidence-based approach. Many people benefit from combined approaches.

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Q: Can my therapist switch approaches if needed?

A: Yes. If progress stalls or your needs change, your psychologist may incorporate different therapeutic techniques or adjust the approach.

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Q: What does "evidence-based" mean?

A: Evidence-based therapies have been tested through rigorous research and proven effective for specific conditions. We use only APS-approved approaches with strong research support.

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Q: How long does each therapy approach take?

A: Duration varies by approach and individual needs:

 

• CBT: Typically 12-20 sessions

• EMDR: Often 8-12 sessions for single-incident trauma

• DBT skills training: Usually 16-24 sessions

• ACT: Generally 12-16 sessions

• Play therapy: Varies widely, often 12-20+ sessions

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Q: Can I request a specific therapy approach?

A: Yes. While we'll recommend approaches based on evidence, we respect your preferences and explain why specific methods might work best for your situation.

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Q: Are all these therapies covered by Medicare?

A: Yes, all evidence-based psychological therapies are covered under Medicare Mental Health Care Plans, which provide rebates for up to 10 sessions annually with a GP referral.

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