Being Well with Forrest Hanson and Dr. Rick Hanson

Why Does Therapy Work?

Dec 18, 2020

14:05

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Research shows that therapy is as effective as medication for depression, with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy being particularly impactful. The alliance between therapist and client plays a crucial role in therapeutic outcomes, with empathy being a key factor. Experience of the therapist doesn't seem to affect the outcome, and therapy changes how clients use their brains in meaningful ways.

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Quick takeaways

Therapy's effectiveness is supported by research, surpassing medication for treating depression.

Strong therapeutic alliance, fueled by empathy, is crucial for successful and sustainable therapeutic outcomes.

Deep dives

Why Psychotherapy Works

Psychotherapy has been found to be effective in helping patients with various forms of therapies such as psychodynamic, CBT, somatic experiencing, and Gestalt work. Despite the lack of conclusive evidence that one therapy form is superior, psychotherapy tends to yield positive results, sometimes even surpassing the efficacy of medication for depression without the associated side effects. Various studies support the effectiveness of therapy, showcasing its ability to facilitate lasting change and growth in individuals.

Exploring the Efficacy of Therapy and Why It Works

2min

Exploring Therapy Effectiveness and the Role of the Therapeutic Alliance

12min

Why does talking to a therapist have such a huge impact on people's lives? On the first edition of "10 Good Minutes," Forrest Hanson dives into the research behind the key factor in any therapeutic relationship.

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Studies:

Psychotherapy is as effective for the treatment of depression as medication.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is particularly effective when it comes to treating depression and anxiety disorders.

Only a few of the studies demonstrating therapy’s effectiveness provide evidence without bias, and there’s a lot of publication bias.

Psychotherapy changes how clients use their brains in meaningful ways.

Therapeutic outcome doesn’t seem to be affected by how experienced the therapist is.

The strength of the alliance established between therapist and client is a key factor.

Empathy appears to be a key factor in the formation of a strong alliance and therapeutic outcomes more generally.

Sponsors:

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