Are you an expat or repat looking to delve into psychotherapy, but unsure which approach is best for you? Worried that a single method may not fully address your concerns?

What is integrative therapy, and how does it work?

Integrative therapy is an approach that combines elements from different therapeutic modalities to provide a more comprehensive and personalised form of treatment. Your integrative therapist is proficient in multiple counselling and psychotherapy modalities, including psychoanalysis, humanistic therapy, cognitive-behavioural therapy, and mindfulness practices for instance.

The integrative approach extends beyond therapy techniques; it encompasses your holistic integration as an individual. It delves into the interplay of your thoughts, emotions, behaviours, physical well-being, and potential spiritual health. The objective of integrative therapy is not to fundamentally alter you but to guide you towards becoming the best version of yourself.

What to anticipate during a session?

Your integrative therapist conducts a comprehensive assessment to gain a deep understanding of your background and issues before determining the most suitable course of action. Depending on the strategies you jointly decide upon, your therapy may involve revisiting your past, envisioning your desired future, engaging in practical exercises to balance your thought patterns, and employing tools such as body awareness and visualization. Despite the incorporation of various approaches, your sessions maintain an overarching structure and coherence to support your progress effectively.

How effective is integrative therapy?

The effectiveness of integrative therapy hinges on several factors, including your commitment to the often demanding therapeutic process, the compatibility of this therapy format with your personality and learning style, and the establishment of a strong therapeutic rapport with your therapist. Therapy is fundamentally a relationship, and despite initial trust issues, it is crucial to connect with a therapist whom you respect and can eventually trust over time. Research-wise, many integrative therapists rely on evidence-based methods like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness, with studies suggesting that integrative therapies can be beneficial for addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.

What is the role of an integrative therapist?

An integrative therapist combines diverse psychotherapeutic techniques and tools to help you enhance your self-esteem, attain a more balanced life, and enhance your coping abilities.

What are some examples of integrative therapy?

Each integrative therapist may assemble a unique blend of psychotherapeutic approaches based on their training and your specific needs. Most therapists are trained in popular therapies, including CBT, mindfulness, and psychodynamic psychotherapy, and may also incorporate other talk therapies like schema therapy, cognitive analytical therapy (CAT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), transactional analysis, and Gestalt therapy into their practice.

Is integrative therapy the same as ‘eclectic therapy’?

While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, it’s important to note that eclectic therapy simply entails drawing from different therapeutic approaches. In contrast, integrative therapy focuses on harmonizing various facets of your being to work in synergy, encompassing your thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and even spiritual and physical well-being.

The duration and frequency of integrative therapy

Sessions can vary depending on several factors, including the type of therapy, the individual’s needs, and the therapist’s recommendations. Here are some general guidelines regarding session duration and frequency:

Session Duration:

Individual Therapy: Integrative therapy sessions typically last 45 minutes to an hour for individual therapy. This allows enough time for meaningful exploration and discussion while preventing the session from becoming overly exhausting.

Frequency:

Weekly Sessions: Many therapists recommend weekly sessions, especially at the beginning of therapy. This frequency helps establish a therapeutic relationship and allows for consistent progress monitoring.

Biweekly or Monthly Sessions: As therapy progresses and individuals experience improvement, session frequency may decrease to biweekly or even monthly appointments. This depends on the client’s needs and therapist’s assessment.

Intensive Therapy:

Some individuals may benefit from intensive therapy, which involves more frequent and longer sessions over a shorter period. This approach is often used when addressing acute crises, trauma, or specific treatment goals.

Maintenance and Follow-up:

After completing an initial course of integrative therapy, individuals may choose to have occasional maintenance or follow-up sessions to prevent relapse and maintain progress.

Follow-up sessions may occur every few months or on an as-needed basis.

It’s important to note that the optimal session duration and frequency can vary significantly from person to person. 

Ultimately, the therapist and client should collaborate to establish a treatment plan that aligns with the individual’s unique circumstances and therapeutic goals. Open communication and ongoing assessment are key to determining the most effective session duration and frequency for integrative therapy.