INDIVIDUAL THERAPY FOR THE WESTPORT, CT AREA

When people are struggling with maladaptive behaviors, they are unable to adapt to new or difficult circumstances. Maladaptive coping behaviors often increase stress and anxiety. Some examples of these types of behaviors include self-harm, binge-eating, and substance abuse. When these behaviors are presented in children or adults, it’s important to reinforce the desirable ones to minimize and eliminate the problems. A way to do that is through behavioral therapy.

Behavioral therapy is action-based. Once the bad habit is recognized, individuals can then work to find alternative behaviors and put them into practice. The professional psychologist at Norman R. Klein, Ph.D. has years of experience in treating patients with behavioral therapy. At our practice, we work with our patients to identify the mental condition they’re struggling with and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.

There are various types of behavioral therapy that use different techniques. Depending on the mental condition and the severity of the symptoms, one type of therapy may be more effective than another. Check out the following section to gain a better understanding of the different techniques and types of behavioral therapies that can be used to help patients. 

Applied Behavior Analysis

This type of therapy uses operant conditioning to shape and modify maladaptive behaviors.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Uses behavioral techniques but also adds a cognitive element. This will focus on the negative thoughts that are rooted in the behavior.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

This type is used for children to assess, prevent, and treat their psychosocial challenges. A psychologist may use play to help the child learn to think and act differently.

Dialectic Behavioral Therapy

Uses both behavioral and cognitive techniques to help patients manage their emotions. It’s also been successful in improving interpersonal relationships.

Exposure Therapy

This type of therapy is used to help patients overcome their fears of situations or objects. A psychologist will expose the patient to the source of their fear while practicing relaxation techniques. It’s been successful in treating specific phobias and certain forms of anxiety.

Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy

A psychologist will work with the patient to focus on the negative thoughts and feelings. This will encourage the patient to challenge and replace them with rational and realistic behaviors.

Social Learning Theory

This type of therapy is rooted in learning from observation. The patient will observe others being punished or rewarded for their actions. This is to encourage them to learn and change their negative behaviors.