YouTube video

We all want to feel loved and desired, to experience all the delightful details of physical love. There’s the delicious anticipation, the electric touch, the joy of giving, the freedom of spontaneity, the eroticism of a shared fantasy — and yes, sometimes, the thrill of the taboo.

It’s a natural human drive. Sex and sensuality create a sense of intimacy with your partner that nothing else can. It’s your unique and secret bond. And of course it’s also a lot of fun!

Which is why it’s so upsetting when fear gets in the way. It’s like some of the colour has been drained out of the world, some of the joy of life stolen from you. It can make you feel like just the husk of the self you wish you could allow yourself to be, the self you wish you could share with your partner.

Instead, people with sexual phobias can find themselves dreading their partner’s touch, feeling guilty and inadequate, maybe even inventing grievances and conflicts to disguise or rationalise your avoidance of sexual intimacy. Meanwhile, our hyper-sexualised culture and media serve as a constant reminder of what they’re missing out on.

Unresolved sexual phobias can cause great damage to relationships and self esteem, and it’s one of the hardest issues to talk about.

people 2603484 1280

Do I have a sexual phobia?

Most people are a little inhibited and self-conscious when it comes to sex. But if the prospect of intimacy or intercourse makes you feel seriously anxious or panicky, then you may have a phobia of sex.

The scientific name of this condition is ‘genophobia’, ‘coitophobia’ or ‘erotophobia’. This anxiety disorder is often the result of something traumatic in the sufferer’s past — something that led to a subconscious fear of intimacy or losing control, an aversion to being touched, body image issues or low self-esteem. Sexual phobias affect how you see your relationship, and how you see yourself and your partner within that relationship. For example, you may have an unconscious wish to withhold enjoyment from yourself or your partner (or both) — even if your conscious mind wants anything but that.

Alternatively, your fear might be the result of performance anxiety, whether due to previous problems or other reasons. In either case, getting help from a professional therapist to assess the problem can often be the most effective first step in addressing it.

NOTE: Many people assume their fear was caused by some forgotten or repressed sexual abuse, but that’s not always the case. It might, for instance, simply be the result of encountering sexuality too early — either directly or vicariously. This can leave a mark, even if the emotional response isn’t registered at the time. It’s common for the unconscious mind to assign retroactive meaning to the encounter years later.

Whatever the cause, the important thing to remember is that you’re not alone, and you don’t have to put up with your fear for the rest of your life.

vintage 791942 1280

What do I actually have to do?

While there’s no ‘quick fix’ for any psychological issue, you won’t usually have to do any difficult, exhausting mental exercises or ‘homework’ as part of treatment at Bayside. Our therapies mostly involve exploring and sharing your feelings, childhood memories, experiences, dreams and fantasies.

Typically, though:

  • Hypnotherapy involves safely entering a relaxed trance and challenging embedded, unconscious beliefs and inhibitions. (Note that it’s not a quick fix. Hypnotherapy works best when combined with other methods, such as counselling.)
  • Counselling is a short-term talk therapy where you talk to your therapist about things you’re consciously aware of, and they suggest strategies to endeavour to help relieve your symptoms. (You can do this online if you’re not located near us, or if you’re not comfortable talking in-clinic.)

Psychotherapy is a longer-form treatment which involves speaking in great depth about your early childhood memories, dreams, daydreams and sexual fantasies. It’s all about exploring your deep-seated, unconscious desires and modes of enjoyment.

Depending on your unique situation and personal preferences, we may also use Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Art Therapy, Person Centred, Psychotherapy, Counselling, Couples Counselling and Psychoanalysis. We have qualified practitioners from all those disciplines.

rock

Who would I be working with?

We have six trained therapists comprising counsellors, hypnotherapists and psychoanalysts on staff here at Bayside Psychotherapy. Until we know more about you and your situation, we can’t say exactly who you’d be working with. But rest assured, they’re all qualified, highly experienced professionals — and compassionate, understanding people. We operate in a completely non-judgemental environment.

What if I’m uncomfortable talking about this stuff?

Many people are uncomfortable talking about sex. Particularly people with sexual phobias. That’s a completely natural feeling. Our team is practiced in creating a safe, relaxing space to make it easier for clients to open up. You just have to take it one step at a time. Your first step would be some talk therapy, where we identify which initial treatment would be most effective for your particular situation.

Hypnotherapy is often used to ease into the treatment process, to be followed by more intensive counselling sessions. This is a very easy and non-confrontational way to start examining your drivers. In fact, you can get started at home by yourself, with the help of our sexual phobia hypnotherapy audio download. We also offer both in-clinic and online counselling and hypnotherapy, so you can choose whichever mode is more comfortable for you.

startup 594090 1280

What’s the first step?

You’ve already taken step one, which is reading this page. Step two is to call and make an appointment to commence therapy. Everyone’s situation is different, so your treatment will be unique to you.

Contact us if you have further questions.

You can book an appointment by using our online booking form for online appointments. Or, if you prefer, you can book an in-clinic session.

Discover recommended therapists for you with a quick quiz

a call to action image having text to choose a therapist

Frequently Asked Questions

Like many phobias, genophobia (or sex phobia) is most likely the cause of severe trauma. The two most common triggers for sex phobia are rape and molestation. Still, other factors such as religious and cultural upbringing, insecurities, body image issues and medical concerns may also be triggers. Additionally, genophobia sometimes occurs without any causes and could be a manifestation of a deeper root cause. 

Many people assume their fear was caused by some forgotten or repressed sexual abuse, but that’s not always the case. It might, for instance, simply be the result of encountering sexuality too early — either directly or vicariously. This can leave a mark, even if the emotional response isn’t registered at the time. It’s common for the unconscious mind to assign retroactive meaning to the encounter years later.

Whatever the cause, the important thing to remember is that you’re not alone, and you don’t have to put up with your fear for the rest of your life.

Treatment for sexual phobia will depend on the complexity of the case and your personal preferences but usually involves hypnotherapy, counselling or psychotherapy.

At Bayside, we have qualified, highly skilled practitioners in all of these disciplines. Our goal is to uncover the deep-seated, unconscious desires and conflicts that have influenced your view of sexual relations — the meanings you ascribe to sexuality, and the roles you see yourself and your partner playing. Then we work with you on strategies to resolve those unconscious conflicts so that you may be able to move forward with confidence.

In other words, we endeavour to treat the cause, not just the symptoms. We don’t generally treat sexual phobia with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), for example, because it focuses on behaviour and conscious thought, which are both just symptoms of the underlying problem.

Everyone’s case is different. The causes and severity of your sexual phobia are unique to you, so your treatment and timeframe will be unique to you too. Some people may report feeling improvement after just a few weeks, others after a few months — and some people find they benefit from years of therapy.

But the commitment is worth it. You’ll be working towards a future where you have the ability to feel comfortable with your sexuality, and relax with your partner, or partners, and let yourself enjoy sex, sensuality and everything surrounding it.

Note Whilst we will do our best to assist you, we rely upon your commitment to and participation in the treatment process to optimise results. Although some of our therapists work with people presenting with this condition, no guarantees of any outcomes can be made.

Time to start therapy?
Email Us
  • Hidden

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.


 

Call us

03 9557 9113

Reception Phone Hours

  • Monday 8:30am to 5:30pm
  • Tuesday 8:30am to 5:30pm
  • Wednesday 8:30am to 5:30pm
  • Thursday 8:30am to 5:30pm
  • Friday 8:30am to 5:30pm

Closed on public holidays

 

Choose your own date and time for an online or in-clinic session

Therapist Hours

  • Monday 8:00am to 8:00pm
  • Tuesday 8:30am to 8:00pm
  • Wednesday 8:30am to 8:00pm
  • Thursday 8:30am to 8:00pm
  • Friday 8:30am to 8:00pm
  • Saturday 8:00am to 6:00pm

Closed on public holidays

 

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)


Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a short-term, goal-oriented psychotherapy treatment that aims to change negative patterns of thinking or behaviour. It is based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and actions are interconnected and that changing negative thought patterns can lead to changes in feelings and behaviours. CBT helps individuals identify and challenge distorted or unhelpful thinking patterns and beliefs, teaching them to respond to challenging situations more effectively. It is commonly used to treat a wide range of disorders, including depression, anxiety, and phobias. The therapy involves working with a therapist in a structured setting, and the skills learned can be applied to everyday life. With its evidence-based approach, CBT has proven effective for many individuals in managing their psychological challenges.

This will close in 0 seconds

Psychodynamic Therapy


Psychodynamic therapy, rooted in the theories of psychoanalysis developed by Sigmund Freud, focuses on the unconscious processes as they manifest in a person's present behaviour. The goal is to increase self-awareness and understanding of how past experiences influence current behaviour. It explores unresolved conflicts and traumatic experiences from the past, which may be impacting present-day behaviours and emotions. Therapists often delve into childhood events, dreams, and the relationship between the therapist and client to uncover hidden patterns. By bringing these unconscious feelings and drives to consciousness, individuals can gain insights into their lives, leading to healing and personal growth. While traditionally long-term, many contemporary forms of psychodynamic therapy are shorter-term. It is used to treat a broad range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.

This will close in 0 seconds

Person-Centred Therapy (or Rogerian Therapy)


Person-centred therapy, developed by Carl Rogers, is a humanistic approach that emphasises the individual's inherent drive towards self-actualization and growth. The therapist provides an environment of unconditional positive regard, empathy, and genuineness, allowing clients to freely express themselves without fear of judgement. This nurturing atmosphere facilitates self-exploration and self-acceptance. Central to the approach is the belief that individuals possess an innate ability to find their solutions when given the right conditions. The therapist's role is not to direct or advise, but rather to act as a facilitative companion on the client's journey. The focus is on the here and now, with the aim to enhance the individual's self-awareness, self-worth, and capacity to create positive changes in their lives.

This will close in 0 seconds

Hypnotherapy


Hypnotherapy is a therapeutic technique that uses guided relaxation, intense concentration, and focused attention to achieve a heightened state of consciousness or trance. Conducted by certified hypnotherapists, it taps into the subconscious mind, allowing clients to explore suppressed memories, emotions, or negative patterns. The process can facilitate behaviour change by introducing positive affirmations or suggestions. Hypnotherapy is often employed to treat anxieties, phobias, substance addictions, unwanted behaviours, and pain management. It can also be used to uncover and address deeper traumas or past experiences. While many report positive results from hypnotherapy, it requires the individual's willingness and trust in the process. It is crucial to approach it with an open mind and under the guidance of a trained professional.

This will close in 0 seconds

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)


Interpersonal therapy (IPT) is a time-limited, evidence-based treatment that focuses on interpersonal issues, aiming to improve communication patterns and relational dynamics. Developed primarily for depression, IPT operates on the premise that psychological symptoms are often linked to interpersonal problems. It concentrates on four main areas: unresolved grief, role disputes (conflicts with significant others), role transitions (major life changes), and interpersonal deficits (long-standing difficulties in forming and maintaining healthy relationships). Therapists help clients identify and address current interpersonal issues that may contribute to their emotional distress. By enhancing communication and relational skills, IPT seeks to alleviate symptoms and improve interpersonal functioning. Emphasising the here and now, it offers practical strategies and insights for individuals to better navigate their social environments.

This will close in 0 seconds

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)


Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is a cognitive-behavioural treatment developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan, primarily for individuals with borderline personality disorder and chronic suicidality. DBT combines standard cognitive-behavioural techniques with concepts from Buddhist meditation, emphasising both acceptance and change. The therapy addresses emotional dysregulation by teaching patients skills in four key areas: mindfulness (staying present in the moment), distress tolerance (managing crises and accepting situations without change), emotion regulation (understanding and managing intense emotions), and interpersonal effectiveness (communicating and setting boundaries). DBT incorporates both individual therapy and group skills training. Its efficacy has expanded beyond its initial focus, showing promise in treating other disorders like eating disorders, substance use disorders, and mood disorders. It aims to balance self-acceptance with the need for change, fostering both emotional stability and interpersonal effectiveness.

This will close in 0 seconds

Integrative or Eclectic Therapy


Integrative or Eclectic therapy combines elements from various therapeutic approaches based on a client's individual needs. Instead of adhering to a single therapy model, integrative therapists are flexible, drawing from multiple theories and techniques to create a personalised treatment. This approach recognizes the value of diverse therapeutic methods and believes no one size fits all. By blending elements from different therapies, integrative practitioners aim to enhance treatment efficacy, tailoring it to the specific issues, preferences, and cultural backgrounds of each client. The underlying principle is that different individuals may benefit from different approaches at different times. Thus, an integrative or eclectic approach is holistic, adaptable, and client-centred, aiming to achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes by using a wider range of tools and insights.

This will close in 0 seconds

Narrative Therapy


Narrative therapy is a therapeutic approach that centres on the stories people construct and hold about their lives. Developed by Michael White and David Epston, it posits that individuals give meaning to their experiences through narrative, often influenced by societal norms and beliefs. In this therapy, problems are externalised, allowing clients to view issues as separate from themselves. Therapists help clients "re-author" these narratives, emphasising strengths, achievements, and overlooked potential. By dissecting and reframing these stories, individuals can perceive challenges differently, identify alternative narratives, and construct more empowered versions of their lives. The approach is non-pathologizing, viewing people as experts of their own lives, with the therapist acting as a collaborative partner in the exploration and rewriting process. Narrative therapy fosters resilience, agency, and personal transformation.

This will close in 0 seconds

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)


Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) is a goal-oriented approach that emphasises solutions rather than problems. Developed by Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg in the 1980s, SFBT operates on the belief that clients possess inherent strengths and resources to manage difficulties and create desired changes. Instead of delving into the origins of problems, the therapy focuses on envisioning a preferred future and identifying practical steps to achieve it. Sessions often involve questions that help clients recognize successes, however small, and build on them. Questions might explore exceptions (times when the problem was not present) or elicit positive feedback, reinforcing progress. SFBT is typically shorter in duration than other modalities and is applicable across various settings and populations, emphasising resilience, competence, and actionable solutions.

This will close in 0 seconds

Gestalt Therapy


Gestalt therapy, developed by Fritz Perls in the mid-20th century, is an experiential and holistic approach focusing on self-awareness and the "here and now." It emphasises personal responsibility and the individual's experience in the present moment, the environment, and the context. The therapy seeks to help clients integrate fragmented aspects of the self, leading to a more unified, authentic whole. Gestalt therapists use creative techniques, including role-playing, dialogue, and experiential exercises, to heighten awareness and resolve unfinished business or "gestalts." Central to the approach is the belief in the innate human capacity for self-regulation and growth when individuals fully experience their feelings and perceptions. Gestalt therapy underscores the importance of the therapist-client relationship, direct engagement, and mutual influence, aiming to foster self-acceptance and personal growth.

This will close in 0 seconds

Schema Therapy


Schema therapy, developed by Dr. Jeffrey Young, integrates elements of cognitive-behavioural, psychodynamic, attachment, and gestalt approaches to treat complex disorders, particularly borderline personality disorder. It posits that maladaptive "schemas" or core beliefs form in childhood due to unmet emotional needs. These schemas persist into adulthood, leading to unhealthy life patterns or coping styles. The therapy identifies and addresses these deep-rooted schemas, aiming to replace them with healthier coping mechanisms. Schema therapy uses various techniques like cognitive restructuring, experiential exercises, and behavioural pattern-breaking. Therapists also emphasise a therapeutic relationship marked by "limited reparenting," wherein they provide the support and guidance that clients might have missed in their childhood. By addressing these core beliefs and their origins, schema therapy seeks long-lasting change and healing for individuals with chronic psychological challenges.

This will close in 0 seconds

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)


Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a therapeutic approach that blends traditional behaviour therapy with mindfulness principles. Developed by Steven C. Hayes in the 1980s, ACT's primary objective is to increase psychological flexibility. It encourages individuals to embrace their thoughts and feelings rather than resisting or feeling guilty for them. The therapy focuses on six core processes: cognitive defusion (distancing from unhelpful thoughts), acceptance (embracing feelings without judgement), present-moment awareness (mindfulness), self-as-context (recognizing a consistent self beyond thoughts), values clarification (identifying what truly matters), and committed action (taking steps aligned with values). ACT posits that pain is a normal part of life and aims to help clients pursue meaningful lives in the presence of pain, rather than avoiding or being dominated by internal distress.

This will close in 0 seconds

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT)


Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is an integrative therapy that combines traditional cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with mindfulness strategies. Developed to prevent the recurrence of depression, MBCT teaches individuals to become more aware of their thoughts and feelings, fostering a different relationship with them rather than trying to eliminate them. This approach aids in recognizing and disrupting automatic cognitive processes, often preventing depressive relapses. Through meditation exercises and awareness techniques, clients learn to focus on the present moment, reducing rumination and negative thought patterns. Research has shown MBCT to be effective in reducing the recurrence of depression, especially for those with a history of recurrent episodes. Beyond depression, it is also applied to various conditions, promoting mental well-being by cultivating mindfulness and a more adaptive relationship with thoughts and emotions.

This will close in 0 seconds

Family Systems Therapy


Family systems therapy, rooted in the work of Murray Bowen, views individuals in the context of their family unit, considering familial relationships, dynamics, and patterns. It posits that an individual's behaviours and emotional well-being are inseparable from the family system they belong to. Distress or dysfunction in one member often reflects broader family dynamics. The therapy seeks to identify and address unhealthy patterns within the family, aiming to foster understanding, improve communication, and resolve conflicts. Therapists observe interactions, facilitate dialogues, and guide family members towards healthier ways of relating. They consider generational patterns, roles, and boundaries. The goal is not just to address the concerns of one member but to enhance the well-being and functionality of the entire family system, recognizing its interconnected nature.

This will close in 0 seconds

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) References


  • Hofmann, S. G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I. J., Sawyer, A. T., & Fang, A. (2012). The efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy: A review of meta-analyses. Cognitive Therapy and Research, 36(5), 427-440.
  • Cuijpers, P., Karyotaki, E., Weitz, E., Andersson, G., Hollon, S. D., & van Straten, A. (2017). The effects of psychotherapies for major depression in adults on remission, recovery, and improvement: a meta-analysis. Journal of Affective Disorders, 202, 511-517.
  • Wiles, N., Thomas, L., Abel, A., Ridgway, N., Turner, N., Campbell, J., ... & Hollinghurst, S. (2013). Cognitive behavioural therapy as an adjunct to pharmacotherapy for primary care based patients with treatment-resistant depression: results of the CoBalT randomised controlled trial. The Lancet, 381(9864), 375-384.
  • Johnsen, T. J., & Friborg, O. (2015). The effects of cognitive behavioral therapy as an anti-depressive treatment is falling: A meta-analysis. Psychological Bulletin, 141(4), 747.
  • Driessen, E., Van, H. L., Don, F. J., Peen, J., Kool, S., Westra, D., ... & Dekker, J. J. (2013). The efficacy of cognitive-behavioral therapy and psychodynamic therapy in the outpatient treatment of major depression: a randomized clinical trial. American Journal of Psychiatry, 170(9), 1041-1050.
  • Cuijpers, P., Cristea, I. A., Karyotaki, E., Reijnders, M., & Huibers, M. J. (2016). How effective are cognitive behavior therapies for major depression and anxiety disorders? A meta-analytic update of the evidence. World Psychiatry, 15(3), 245-258.

This will close in 0 seconds

Psychodynamic Therapy References


  • Leichsenring, F., & Rabung, S. (2011). Long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy in complex mental disorders: update of a meta-analysis. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 199(1), 15-22.
  • Abbass, A., Kisely, S., & Kroenke, K. (2014). Short-term psychodynamic psychotherapy for somatic disorders: Systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials. Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 83(5), 265-274.
  • Luyten, P., & Fonagy, P. (2015). The neurobiology of mentalizing. Personality Disorders: Theory, Research, and Treatment, 6(4), 366.
  • Gerber, A. J., Kocsis, J. H., Milrod, B. L., Roose, S. P., Barber, J. P., Thase, M. E., ... & Schneier, F. R. (2011). A quality-based review of randomized controlled trials of psychodynamic psychotherapy. American Journal of Psychiatry, 168(1), 19-28.
  • Munder, T., Wilmers, F., Leonhart, R., Linster, H. W., & Barth, J. (2010). Working Alliance Inventory-Short Revised (WAI-SR): psychometric properties in outpatients and inpatients. Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy, 17(3), 231-239.
  • Town, J. M., Diener, M. J., Abbass, A., Leichsenring, F., Driessen, E., & Rabung, S. (2012). A meta-analysis of psychodynamic psychotherapy outcomes: Evaluating the effects of research-specific procedures. Psychotherapy, 49(3), 276.

This will close in 0 seconds

Person-Centred Therapy (or Rogerian Therapy) References


  • Elliott, R., Greenberg, L. S., Watson, J., Timulak, L., & Freire, E. (2013). Research on humanistic-experiential psychotherapies. Bergin and Garfield's Handbook of Psychotherapy and Behavior Change, 495-538.
  • Cooper, M., O'Hara, M., Schmid, P. F., & Wyatt, G. (2016). The Handbook of Person-Centred Psychotherapy and Counselling. Palgrave Macmillan.
  • Prochaska, J. O., & Norcross, J. C. (2018). Systems of Psychotherapy: A Transtheoretical Analysis. Oxford University Press.
  • Watson, J. C. (2017). Constructing the therapeutic relationship in person-centered therapy. Journal of Psychotherapy Integration, 27(4), 475.
  • Cepeda, L. M., & Davenport, D. S. (2016). Person-centered therapy and solution-focused brief therapy: An integration of present and future awareness. Psychotherapy, 53(1), 27.
  • Murphy, R., & Hutton, P. (2018). Practitioner review: Therapist variability, patient-reported therapeutic alliance, and clinical outcomes in adolescents undergoing mental health treatment–A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 59(1), 5-19.

This will close in 0 seconds

Hypnotherapy References


  • Alladin, A. (2012). Cognitive hypnotherapy: An integrated approach to the treatment of emotional disorders. Journal of Cognitive Psychotherapy, 26(4), 272-284.
  • Elkins, G., Barabasz, A., Council, J., & Spiegel, D. (2015). Advancing research and practice: The revised APA Division 30 definition of hypnosis. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 57(4), 378-385.
  • Jensen, M. P., Jamieson, G. A., Lutz, A., Mazzoni, G., McGeown, W. J., Santarcangelo, E. L., ... & Terhune, D. B. (2015). New directions in hypnosis research: Strategies for advancing the cognitive and clinical neuroscience of hypnosis. Neuroscience of Consciousness, 2015(1), niv012.
  • Elkins, G., Barabasz, A., Council, J., & Spiegel, D. (2015). Advancing Research and Practice: The Revised APA Division 30 Definition of Hypnosis. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 63(1), 1-9.
  • Lynn, S. J., Rhue, J. W., & Kirsch, I. (2010). Handbook of clinical hypnosis (2nd ed.). Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
  • Alladin, A. (2012). Cognitive hypnotherapy: An integrated approach to the treatment of emotional disorders. John Wiley & Sons.

This will close in 0 seconds

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) References


  • Cuijpers, P., Karyotaki, E., Weitz, E., Andersson, G., Hollon, S. D., & van Straten, A. (2016). The effects of psychotherapies for major depression in adults on remission, recovery, and improvement: A meta-analysis. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 84(3), 262.
  • Markowitz, J. C., & Weissman, M. M. (2012). Interpersonal psychotherapy: Past, present and future. Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy, 19(2), 99-105.
  • Mufson, L., Dorta, K. P., Wickramaratne, P., Nomura, Y., Olfson, M., & Weissman, M. M. (2017). A randomized effectiveness trial of interpersonal psychotherapy for depressed adolescents. Archives of General Psychiatry, 64(6), 577-584.
  • Cuijpers, P., Geraedts, A. S., van Oppen, P., Andersson, G., Markowitz, J. C., & van Straten, A. (2011). Interpersonal psychotherapy for depression: A meta-analysis. The American Journal of Psychiatry, 168(6), 581-592.
  • Belsher, B. E., Beevers, C. G., & Neimeyer, R. A. (2012). Differential treatment response for depressed patients high in anxiety or anger. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 80(5), 852.
  • Lemmens, L. H., Galindo-Garre, F., Arntz, A., Peeters, F., Hollon, S. D., Derubeis, R. J., & Huibers, M. J. (2017). Exploring mechanisms of change in cognitive therapy and interpersonal psychotherapy for adult depression. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 94, 81-92.

This will close in 0 seconds

Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) References


  • Kliem, S., Kröger, C., & Kosfelder, J. (2010). Dialectical behavior therapy for borderline personality disorder: A meta-analysis using mixed-effects modeling. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 78(6), 936.
  • Panos, P. T., Jackson, J. W., Hasan, O., & Panos, A. (2014). Meta-analysis and systematic review assessing the efficacy of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Research on Social Work Practice, 24(2), 213-223.
  • Linehan, M. M., Korslund, K. E., Harned, M. S., Gallop, R. J., Lungu, A., Neacsiu, A. D., ... & Murray-Gregory, A. M. (2015). Dialectical behavior therapy for high suicide risk in individuals with borderline personality disorder: A randomized clinical trial and component analysis. JAMA Psychiatry, 72(5), 475-482.
  • Chapman, A. L. (2016). Dialectical behavior therapy: Current indications and unique elements. Psychiatry (Edgmont), 3(9), 62.
  • Neacsiu, A. D., Eberle, J. W., Kramer, R., Wiesmann, T., & Linehan, M. M. (2014). Dialectical behavior therapy skills for transdiagnostic emotion dysregulation: A pilot randomized controlled trial. Behaviour Research and Therapy, 59, 40-51.
  • Paris, J. (2017). Is hospitalization useful for suicidal patients with borderline personality disorder?. Journal of Personality Disorders, 31(1), 58-66.

This will close in 0 seconds

Integrative or Eclectic Therapy References


  • Norcross, J. C., & Goldfried, M. R. (Eds.). (2019). Handbook of psychotherapy integration (3rd ed.). Oxford University Press.
  • Cook, J. E., Biyanova, T., & Coyne, J. C. (2010). Barriers to adoption of new treatments: An internet study of practicing community psychotherapists. Administration and Policy in Mental Health and Mental Health Services Research, 37(2), 83-90.
  • Watson, J. C., Gordon, L. B., Stermac, L., Kalogerakos, F., & Steckley, P. (2010). Comparing the effectiveness of process‐experiential with cognitive‐behavioral psychotherapy in the treatment of depression. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 74(6), 1030.
  • Wampold, B. E., & Imel, Z. E. (2015). The great psychotherapy debate: The evidence for what makes psychotherapy work (2nd ed.). Routledge.
  • Cooper, M. (2019). The challenge of counselling and psychotherapy research. Counselling Psychology Review, 24(3-4), 88-96.
  • Cuijpers, P., van Straten, A., Andersson, G., & van Oppen, P. (2010). Psychotherapy for depression in adults: A meta-analysis of comparative outcome studies. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 77(6), 909.

This will close in 0 seconds

Narrative Therapy References


  • Vetlesen, A. J. (2015). Narrative exposure therapy: A short-term treatment for traumatic stress disorders. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 54(8), 688-696.
  • Mørkved, N., Winje, D., Dovran, A., Arefjord, K., Johnsen, I. H., Kroken, R. A., ... & Thimm, J. C. (2019). A pilot study of narrative exposure therapy in adolescents and young adults with borderline personality features and self-harm. Frontiers in Psychology, 10, 656.
  • Robjant, K., & Fazel, M. (2010). The emerging evidence for Narrative Exposure Therapy: A review. Clinical Psychology Review, 30(8), 1030-1039.
  • Grysman, A., & Hudson, J. A. (2013). Gender differences in autobiographical memory: Developmental and methodological considerations. Developmental Review, 33(3), 239-272.
  • Thomaes, K., Dorrepaal, E., Draijer, N., Jansma, E. P., Veltman, D. J., & van Balkom, A. J. (2014). Can pharmacological and psychological treatment change brain structure and function in PTSD? A systematic review. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 50, 1-15.
  • McLeod, J. (2013). An introduction to counselling. McGraw-Hill Education (UK).

This will close in 0 seconds

Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) References


  • Franklin, C., Trepper, T. S., Gingerich, W. J., & McCollum, E. E. (2011). Solution-focused brief therapy: A handbook of evidence-based practice. Oxford University Press.
  • Kim, J. S. (2014). Examining the effectiveness of solution-focused brief therapy: A meta-analysis. Research on Social Work Practice, 24(3), 304-315.
  • De Shazer, S., & Dolan, Y. (2012). More than miracles: The state of the art of solution-focused brief therapy. Routledge.
  • Bond, C., Woods, K., Humphrey, N., Symes, W., & Green, L. (2013). Practitioner review: The effectiveness of solution-focused brief therapy with children and families: A systematic and critical evaluation of the literature from 1990–2010. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 54(7), 707-723.
  • Stams, G. J., Deković, M., Buist, K., & de Vries, L. (2011). Efficacy of solution-focused brief therapy: A meta-analysis. Clinical Psychology Review, 31(4), 605-617.
  • Gingerich, W. J., & Peterson, L. T. (2013). Effectiveness of solution-focused brief therapy: A systematic qualitative review of controlled outcome studies. Research on Social Work Practice, 23(3), 266-283.

This will close in 0 seconds

Gestalt Therapy References


  • Roubal, J. (Ed.). (2016). Gestalt therapy in clinical practice: From psychopathology to the aesthetics of contact. Siracusa: Gestalt Press.
  • Brownell, P. (2016). Handbook for theory, research, and practice in gestalt therapy (2nd ed.). Newcastle upon Tyne: Cambridge Scholars Publishing.
  • Elliott, R., Watson, J. C., Goldman, R. N., & Greenberg, L. S. (2011). Learning emotion-focused therapy: The process-experiential approach to change. American Psychological Association.
  • Perls, F., Hefferline, R. F., & Goodman, P. (2010). Gestalt therapy: Excitement and growth in the human personality. Start Publishing LLC.
  • Yontef, G., & Jacobs, L. (2010). Gestalt therapy. In Corsini Encyclopedia of Psychology (4th ed.). Wiley.
  • Brown, M., & Pedder, J. (2015). Introduction to psychotherapy: An outline of psychodynamic principles and practice (4th ed.). Routledge.

This will close in 0 seconds

Schema Therapy References


  • Arntz, A., & Jacob, G. (2012). Schema therapy in practice: An introductory guide to the schema mode approach. Wiley.
  • Giesen-Bloo, J., & Arntz, A. (2013). Outpatient psychotherapy for borderline personality disorder: randomized trial of schema-focused therapy vs transference-focused psychotherapy. Archives of general psychiatry, 63(6), 649-658.
  • Rafaeli, E., Bernstein, D. P., & Young, J. (2011). Schema therapy: Distinctive features. Routledge.
  • Nordahl, H. M., & Nysæter, T. E. (2015). Schema therapy for patients with borderline personality disorder: a single case series. Journal of Behavior Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, 48, 69-77.
  • Cockram, D. M., Drummond, P. D., & Lee, C. W. (2010). Role and treatment of early maladaptive schemas in Vietnam veterans with PTSD. Clinical psychology & psychotherapy, 17(3), 165-182.
  • Bamelis, L. L., Evers, S. M., Spinhoven, P., & Arntz, A. (2014). Results of a multicenter randomized controlled trial of the clinical effectiveness of schema therapy for personality disorders. American Journal of Psychiatry, 171(3), 305-322.

This will close in 0 seconds

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) References


  • Hayes, S. C., & Hofmann, S. G. (Eds.). (2012). Process-based CBT: The science and core clinical competencies of cognitive behavioral therapy. New Harbinger Publications.
  • Swain, J., Hancock, K., Hainsworth, C., & Bowman, J. (2013). Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in the treatment of anxiety: A systematic review. Clinical psychology review, 33(8), 965-978.
  • A-tjak, J. G., Davis, M. L., Morina, N., Powers, M. B., Smits, J. A., & Emmelkamp, P. M. (2015). A meta-analysis of the efficacy of acceptance and commitment therapy for clinically relevant mental and physical health problems. Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 84(1), 30-36.
  • Öst, L. G. (2014). The efficacy of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis. Behaviour research and therapy, 61, 105-121.
  • Forman, E. M., Herbert, J. D., Moitra, E., Yeomans, P. D., & Geller, P. A. (2012). A randomized controlled effectiveness trial of acceptance and commitment therapy and cognitive therapy for anxiety and depression. Behavior modification, 36(6), 742-766.
  • Levin, M. E., Hildebrandt, M. J., Lillis, J., & Hayes, S. C. (2012). The impact of treatment components suggested by the psychological flexibility model: A meta-analysis of laboratory-based component studies. Behavior therapy, 43(4), 741-756.

This will close in 0 seconds

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) References


  • Kuyken, W., Warren, F. C., Taylor, R. S., Whalley, B., Crane, C., Bondolfi, G., ... & Segal, Z. (2016). Efficacy of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy in Prevention of Depressive Relapse. JAMA Psychiatry, 73(6), 565-574.
  • Hofmann, S. G., Sawyer, A. T., Witt, A. A., & Oh, D. (2010). The effect of mindfulness-based therapy on anxiety and depression: A meta-analytic review. Journal of consulting and clinical psychology, 78(2), 169.
  • Gu, J., Strauss, C., Bond, R., & Cavanagh, K. (2015). How do mindfulness-based cognitive therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction improve mental health and wellbeing? A systematic review and meta-analysis of mediation studies. Clinical psychology review, 37, 1-12.
  • van der Velden, A. M., Kuyken, W., Wattar, U., Crane, C., Pallesen, K. J., Dahlgaard, J., ... & Piet, J. (2015). A systematic review of mechanisms of change in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in the treatment of recurrent major depressive disorder. Clinical psychology review, 37, 26-39.
  • Strauss, C., Cavanagh, K., Oliver, A., & Pettman, D. (2014). Mindfulness-based interventions for people diagnosed with a current episode of an anxiety or depressive disorder: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. PLOS ONE, 9(4), e96110.
  • Crane, C., & Kuyken, W. (2013). The implementation of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy: Learning from the UK health service experience. Mindfulness, 4(3), 246-254.

This will close in 0 seconds

Family Systems Therapy References


  • Carr, A. (2014). The evidence base for couple therapy, family therapy and systemic interventions for adult-focused problems. Journal of Family Therapy, 36(2), 158-194.
  • Lebow, J. L. (2014). Couple and family therapy: An integrative map of the territory. American Psychological Association.
  • Sexton, T. L., & Datchi, C. (2014). The development and evolution of family therapy research: Its impact on practice, current status, and future directions. Family Process, 53(3), 415-433.
  • Asen, E., & Fonagy, P. (2012). Mentalization-based therapeutic interventions for families. Journal of Family Therapy, 34(4), 347-370.
  • Sprenkle, D. H. (Ed.). (2012). Effectiveness research in marriage and family therapy. American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.
  • Miller, S. D., Hubble, M. A., & Duncan, B. L. (Eds.). (2013). Handbook of solution-focused brief therapy: Clinical applications. John Wiley & Sons.

This will close in 0 seconds

Need help choosing a therapist?

Answer 9 quick (anonymous) questions, and we'll recommend the right therapist for you.

Start
I want an…
Online session

Therapists who do online

  • Adam Szmerling
  • Carolina Rosa
  • Kelli Tranter
  • Lawrence Akers
  • Humaira Ansari
  • Natalie Szmerling
  • Sara Herring
View therapists who do online
In-clinic session

Therapists who do in-clinic

  • Adam Szmerling
  • Natalie Szmerling
  • Lawrence Akers
  • Carolina Rosa
  • Sara Herring

 

View therapists who do in-clinic