Psychotherapy Treatment (Talk Therapy)

Life can bring challenges that feel overwhelming - from loss and relationship changes to anxiety, depression or stress. Psychotherapy, often called talk therapy, can help you work through those experiences, build coping skills and improve emotional well-being. 

At Banner Health, our licensed therapists provide safe, confidential care in a supportive environment. We view therapy as a collaborative process, helping you identify your goals and develop tools to manage challenges and improve quality of life. 

What is psychotherapy 

Psychotherapy is a structured conversation between you and a trained mental health professional. Together, you’ll explore your thoughts, emotions and behaviors to better understand what’s contributing to distress or life difficulties. 

Therapy can help with: 

• Anxiety, depression or mood changes 
• Grief, loss or relationship problems 
• Major life transitions or stress at work or home 
• Traumatic experiences or emotional distress 
• Destructive or repetitive thoughts or behaviors 

The goal of psychotherapy is to reduce symptoms, improve emotional health and strengthen your ability to handle life’s ups and downs. 

Psychotherapy vs. psychiatry 

People often confuse psychotherapy with psychiatry. While the two overlap, they serve different roles: 

• Psychotherapists (such as psychologists, counselors, or social workers) provide talk therapy and emotional support but typically do not prescribe medication. 
• Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can diagnose mental health disorders, prescribe medication and often collaborate with therapists to manage ongoing care. 

In many cases, the best treatment combines both therapy and medication under the guidance of your care team. 

Types of psychotherapy 

There are several evidence-based approaches to psychotherapy. Your therapist will recommend a style or combination of therapies that best fits your needs, personality and goals. 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) 

CBT focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior. It teaches practical skills to challenge negative thoughts and replace them with more balanced, realistic ones. 

CBT can help with: 

• Depression and anxiety 
• Trauma-related conditions 
• Eating disorders 
• Obsessive-compulsive behaviors 

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) 

A specialized form of CBT, DBT teaches skills for managing intense emotions, reducing self-destructive behavior and improving relationships. 

DBT can help with: 

• Borderline personality disorder 
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) 
• Chronic suicidal thoughts or self-harm 
• Eating disorders 

DBT typically includes both individual and group therapy sessions. 

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) 

EMDR uses guided eye movements or other forms of rhythmic stimulation to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories. It is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which suggests the brain can naturally heal when trauma is fully processed. 

EMDR can help with: 

• PTSD and trauma-related disorders 
• Abuse or violence 
• Phobias or anxiety 
• Grief and loss 
• Emotional distress after accidents or medical events 

Learn more about EMDR. 

Interpersonal therapy (IPT) 

IPT focuses on improving communication and relationships with others. It helps people manage social stress, conflict or grief that may contribute to depression. IPT is typically short-term and goal oriented. 

Family-focused therapy (FFT) 

FFT is used primarily to support individuals with bipolar disorder and their families. It combines education about the condition with therapy sessions that strengthen communication and reduce family stress. 

The goal is to help families become active partners in treatment and build healthy emotional connections. 

Who can benefit from psychotherapy 

Psychotherapy can benefit anyone experiencing emotional distress, personal challenges or difficulty coping with life changes. You don’t need a mental health diagnosis to start therapy. 

It can be especially helpful for people who are: 

• Feeling anxious, depressed or overwhelmed 
• Coping with trauma or grief 
• Struggling with relationships, addiction or self-esteem 
• Adjusting to illness, caregiving or major life transitions 

Therapy provides tools for managing emotions, improving communication and building resilience - skills that support lifelong well-being. 

What to expect during psychotherapy 

Your first therapy session is a chance to meet your therapist and discuss your goals. You’ll review your personal history, current concerns and what you hope to achieve through therapy. 

Sessions typically last 45 to 60 minutes and may take place in person or virtually. Depending on your needs, therapy may occur weekly or every other week. Some people benefit from short-term therapy lasting a few weeks, while others may continue longer for chronic or complex issues. 

If you’re receiving inpatient care, psychotherapy can also be part of your hospital treatment plan, often provided in a group setting focused on stabilization and safety. 

A good relationship with your therapist is key. If you don’t feel comfortable after a few sessions, it’s okay to request a different provider. Banner Health’s team can help match you with someone who fits your needs and preferences. 

Why choose Banner Health for psychotherapy 

At Banner Health, our behavioral health professionals take a compassionate, whole-person approach to care. We focus on helping you understand yourself, strengthen your coping skills and feel empowered to make meaningful change. 

We offer: 

• Licensed therapists trained in multiple evidence-based therapies 
• Collaborative treatment planning with your physician or psychiatrist 
• In-person and virtual therapy options for flexibility 
• Support for individuals, couples, and families 

No matter what you’re facing, we’re here to help you heal and thrive. 

Find a Banner Health therapist.