Therapy Modalities Explained
Therapy can be approached in different ways, often referred to as modalities. These modalities describe how therapists guide conversations, reflections, and activities during therapy sessions.
Therapists may draw from one or more modalities depending on their training and perspective, and approaches are often adapted rather than used in a fixed way.
This page provides general educational information and is not intended to offer medical advice or clinical treatment. Not all modailities are offered by clinicians at TheraQ.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a structured approach that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. CBT-informed programs often emphasize awareness of thinking patterns and the development of practical skills.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic therapy focuses on exploring patterns, relationships, and past experiences that may influence present thoughts and behaviors. This modality emphasizes reflection and insight.
Neurodiversity-Affirming Approaches
Neurodiversity-affirming approaches recognize and respect natural variations in cognition, communication, and learning styles. Rather than viewing differences as deficits, these approaches emphasize understanding individual perspectives and adapting therapeutic practices to support autonomy, accessibility, and inclusion.
In therapy education, neurodiversity-affirming perspectives are often integrated into broader approaches to help create supportive, flexible, and respectful therapeutic environments.
Humanistic Therapy
Humanistic approaches center on self-awareness, personal values, and individual perspective. These modalities emphasize collaboration, authenticity, and understanding within the therapeutic process.
Eye Movement Desensitization
and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is a structured modality that incorporates guided bilateral stimulation as part of a therapeutic process for trauma treatment. EMDR-informed programs follow specific protocols and training standards.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Emotionally Focused Therapy is a modality that focuses on understanding emotional experiences and patterns within relationships. EFT-informed approaches often emphasize emotional awareness, connection, and communication as part of the therapeutic process. This modality is commonly used in relational or family-based settings.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
Cognitive Processing Therapy is a structured, cognitive-based modality that focuses on examining how experiences are interpreted and understood. CPT-informed approaches emphasize reflection on beliefs and meaning-making processes, often using guided discussion and structured exercises.
Integrative or Eclectic Approaches
Many therapy programs use integrative approaches that draw from multiple modalities rather than relying on a single framework. This flexibility allows programs to adapt to different contexts and populations.
Somatic Therapy
Somatic therapy approaches incorporate awareness of physical sensations and the mind–body connection. Programs using somatic modalities may include grounding or body-based reflective practices.
How Modalities Are Used in Therapy
Modalities used within a therapy program can depend on factors such as provider training, program goals, and community needs. In many cases, modalities are adapted rather than applied rigidly. Understanding therapy modalities can help people see how different programs structure their care and how to find a therapist that fits their specific needs.
Therapy Modalities at TheraQ
TheraQ partners with clinicians with diverse training backgrounds and therapeutic approaches for community-based programs.
TheraQ’s role as a nonprofit organization is to support access to therapy through community-based programs and partnerships. Educational information on therapy modalities is shared to clarify how therapy is practiced across settings and to support a general understanding of therapeutic approaches.