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Therapy Types

Dr. Adi Lavi-Rotenberg, Expert rehabilitation psychologist, expert member of איט"ה. Psychologist at Zohar clinic, Rambam Health Care Campus;  Liat Ariel, Expert clinical psychologist, supervisor, and group analyst. Director of the Psychological Services Division, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa
13 July 2026

In recent decades, the field of mental health has developed significantly, and today there is a wide range of treatments tailored to different needs. Psychological treatment (psychotherapy) is based on conversation and allows for a deeper understanding of emotions and patterns, along with the development of new coping strategies.

Psychodynamic therapy focuses on exploring past experiences and their impact on the present, while cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) focuses on identifying and changing thought and behavior patterns. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) adds tools for emotional regulation and coping with extreme situations, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) emphasizes accepting experiences while taking action based on personal values.

Trauma treatment includes dedicated methods such as PE (Prolonged Exposure), which is based on gradual exposure to distressing memories, and EMDR, which helps process experiences through bilateral stimulation.

Medication treatment is provided by psychiatrists when there is a need to reduce symptoms by balancing biochemical processes, and it is sometimes combined with emotional therapy. In addition, there are mind-body approaches such as biofeedback, which teaches regulation of physiological responses; hypnosis, which helps access deeper internal experiences; and mindfulness and meditation, which strengthen awareness and presence in the moment.

Additional treatments include group therapy, which provides support and shared learning; play therapy for children, which is based on expression through play; and dyadic therapy, which focuses on the relationship between a parent and child. There are also complementary treatments such as art therapy, animal-assisted therapy, and couples and family therapy.

Choosing the appropriate treatment is based on personal needs and sometimes combines different approaches to create a precise and tailored response.

In recent decades, the field of mental health has developed significantly, and today there are many types of mental health treatments. Some focus on conversations and understanding a person’s inner world, some are based on changing thought and behavior patterns, others use mind-body techniques, and there are also medication treatments. As with any other service, this field also has waiting times and prioritization based on clinical condition. This article discusses the common types of treatments available today (not all treatment types are available or accessible at every clinic), the differences between them, who each type may be suitable for, and how to choose the approach that is right for you.

How to choose the most suitable therapy

Choosing the type of treatment depends on many factors, such as the type of difficulty, the severity of the condition, personal preference, previous treatment experience, and sometimes practical considerations such as availability, cost, or whether the treatment can be received in the community setting.

Sometimes the patient chooses the type of treatment, and sometimes the choice is made together with a professional who helps with an initial assessment and guidance.

It is important to remember: You do not always need to make the "right" choice from the beginning. In many cases, treatment begins with one therapeutic approach and later combines or transitions to another approach, depending on the needs that develop during treatment.

It is important to note that treatment always begins with a mental health assessment, and usually an initial assessment meeting (intake) takes place before the process begins. The purpose of this meeting is to assess the mental health status, explain the diagnosis or suspected diagnosis to the patient, and provide the main recommendations regarding the type of treatment and the required treatment setting.

Learn more about intake

Types of treatment

Psychological treatment - a shared journey of self-discovery and healing

Psychological treatment, or psychotherapy, is one of the main ways to address mental and emotional difficulties. It is a therapeutic process based on conversations between the patient and the therapist, with the goal of understanding experiences, emotions, and internal patterns and helping create change that leads to improved quality of life. Each of us has a personal story made up of emotions, thoughts, and life experiences. Psychological treatment offers a safe and supportive space to explore this story, understand the connections between past experiences and life in the present, and discover new coping strategies and inner resources.

In the therapeutic process, the shared work aims to:

  • To better understand emotions, thoughts, and behavior patterns.

  • To identify recurring patterns that affect relationships and personal well-being.

  • To develop more effective ways of coping with difficulties and challenges.

  • To strengthen a sense of ability and improve quality of life.

In medical situations or during hospitalization, therapeutic intervention can help with coping with illness, a medical crisis, and rehabilitation processes.

  • Who is qualified to provide this type of treatment: Psychological treatment is provided only by licensed psychologists who are authorized to do so. Psychotherapy is provided by professionals who have received appropriate training in the mental health field, including psychologists, clinical social workers, psychiatrists, and certified psychotherapists.
  • Where treatment takes place: Psychological treatment can be received in various settings - health maintenance organizations (HMOs), hospitals, public treatment centers, or private clinics. In some cases, treatment can also be provided online through video sessions.

Learn more about mental health treatment using technological tools

Mental Health Hotlines of the HMOs

Main therapeutic approaches in psychotherapy

There are various therapeutic approaches, with some therapists working primarily with one approach and others combining different approaches based on the unique personal needs of the patient.

Psychodynamic therapy focuses on an in-depth exploration of emotions, thoughts, and internal conflicts, including those that a person may not be aware of at all or may only be partially aware of. The goal of treatment is to understand how past experiences and early patterns affect life in the present and to create change through self-understanding and a meaningful therapeutic relationship.

  • Nature of the treatment: Psychodynamic therapy is based on psychoanalytic principles and includes various approaches that differ in their areas of focus and the way they emphasize emotional, interpersonal, and intrapsychic processes.
  • Course of treatment: During treatment, patterns that emerge within the therapeutic relationship itself (between the therapist and the patient) may also be explored, as they can reflect relationship patterns from the patient's life.
    Psychodynamic therapy can help with a range of situations, such as ongoing emotional difficulties, depression and anxiety, interpersonal relationship difficulties, a sense of being stuck, or a search for meaning and identity. For many people, it is a gradual process that allows for a deeper understanding of their inner world and the development of new coping strategies.
  • Who is qualified to provide treatment: Treatment is provided by mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and clinical social workers, who have received specialized training in these methods.

CBT is a focused therapeutic approach based on the understanding that there is a close connection between thoughts, emotions, and behavior. Therefore, the way we interpret situations affects our emotions and the way we act.

  • Nature of the treatment: This approach teaches how to identify thoughts and behaviors that make things more difficult and replace them with more helpful ones. As part of treatment, patients learn to understand how their thoughts affect their emotions and behavior. This approach is particularly effective in addressing a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), sleep disorders, and sometimes difficulties with emotional regulation or coping with stressful situations.
  • Course of treatment: During treatment, patients learn to identify negative or automatic thought patterns, examine them critically, and develop more effective ways of thinking and coping. Alongside cognitive work, behavioral tools are also used, such as gradual exposure to challenging situations (for example, taking an exam or speaking in front of an audience) or practicing social skills. These tools help patients gradually cope with these situations, strengthen a sense of ability, improve emotional and interpersonal functioning, and lead to improved quality of life.
  • Who is qualified to provide treatment: Treatment is provided by mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and clinical social workers, who have received specialized training in these methods.

DBT (an acronym for Dialectical Behavior Therapy) was developed from the cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach. The method is designed especially for people who experience significant difficulties with emotional regulation, intense emotional responses, and significant interpersonal difficulties.

  • Nature of the treatment: The treatment combines work on self-acceptance with changing patterns that are not helpful to the person. It is particularly effective in situations involving difficulty managing emotions, coping with crises, and situations where there is a tendency toward intense emotional responses or impulsive behaviors.
  • Course of treatment: During the therapeutic process, patients learn practical skills in areas such as emotional regulation, coping with stress, interpersonal communication, and the use of mindfulness.
  • Individual or group: Treatment is provided either as individual therapy or combined with a skills training group, where participants learn and practice the tools in a structured setting.
  • Who is qualified to provide treatment: Treatment is provided by mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and clinical social workers, who have received specialized training in these methods.

ACT (an acronym for Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) was developed from the cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach. The method focuses on developing psychological flexibility, which is the ability to notice internal experiences and what is happening within us (thoughts, emotions, and sensations) without struggling against them, while at the same time acting according to the personal values of the patient.

  • Nature of the treatment: The treatment emphasizes accepting unpleasant experiences as a natural part of life, alongside a commitment to meaningful action. Instead of trying to "eliminate" difficult thoughts or emotions, the treatment teaches how to change the relationship with them so they do not control behavior.
  • Course of treatment: During treatment, practical skills are learned, such as identifying avoidance patterns, developing awareness of the present moment, and defining meaningful life directions. ACT has been found to be effective in a variety of situations, including anxiety, depression, coping with chronic pain, ongoing stress, and avoidance patterns that limit quality of life. It is especially suitable for people who feel "stuck" in an internal struggle with thoughts and emotions and want to develop a values-based life while accepting the full human experience.
  • Individual or group: Treatment can be provided individually or in a group setting, and sometimes includes experiential exercises and mindfulness practices.
  • Who is qualified to provide treatment: Treatment is provided by mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and clinical social workers, who have received specialized training in these methods.

PE treatment was developed from the cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach and is considered one of the main methods for treating trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The method focuses on gradual and structured exposure to memories, thoughts, and situations that trigger fear or distress, with the goal of processing the traumatic experience and reducing the intensity of emotional responses.

  • Nature of the treatment: The treatment is based on the understanding that avoiding memories or situations related to trauma may reduce distress in the short term but maintains it over time. Through controlled and safe exposure, renewed adaptation, reduced fear, and learning that the memories themselves are not dangerous become possible.
  • Course of treatment: During treatment, exposure is conducted in two main areas. The first is imaginal exposure to traumatic memories. The second is in vivo exposure to situations that the patient avoids, such as places, activities, or certain stimuli that remind them of the event that occurred. The process is gradual and guided by a professional, while strengthening a sense of control and safety.
  • Who is qualified to provide treatment: Treatment is provided by mental health professionals (psychologists, psychiatrists, and clinical social workers) who have received specialized training in trauma treatment and the PE method.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a treatment originally developed to address trauma and is now also used for other situations involving psychological distress.

  • Nature of the treatment: The treatment is especially suitable for people who have experienced traumatic events, such as accidents, violence, or loss, but it is also used to address anxiety, distressing memories, and past experiences that continue to affect life in the present.
  • Course of treatment: During the therapeutic process, the patient focuses on a distressing memory or experience while bilateral stimulation is applied, usually through eye movements, sounds, or rhythmic tapping. This combination helps the brain reprocess the traumatic memory so that its emotional intensity decreases and it becomes integrated into the memory system less overwhelmingly. The treatment is considered relatively focused, and some people may experience significant relief after several sessions.
  • Who is qualified to provide treatment: Treatment is provided by mental health professionals, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, and clinical social workers, who have received specialized training in these methods.

It is important to know: Sometimes EMDR is incorporated as part of a broader therapeutic process, in which this type of treatment is used in a focused way to process significant experiences or memories.

Medication treatment

Medication treatment is one of the main tools available to doctors working in mental health, and sometimes to family physicians, following a medical assessment. Its purpose is to help reduce mental health symptoms through medications that affect brain activity and the nervous system.

Some people are concerned about the term "psychiatric medications," but for many, these medications provide significant support that can relieve psychological distress and help them return to functioning and daily routines. In many cases, medication treatment is not used on its own but is combined with psychological treatment.

  • Nature of the treatment: Medications work by balancing biochemical processes in the brain and can therefore reduce symptoms such as depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, significant mood changes, or sleep disorders. There are different groups of medications, including antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotic medications.
  • Who is this treatment suitable for? Medication treatment may be suitable when psychological distress is significant and affects daily functioning, such as in cases of severe depression or anxiety. However, there are situations where psychological treatment alone can be started, with an assessment later of whether medication is also needed.
  • Who is qualified to provide medication treatment? A psychiatrist. In some cases, a family physician can also prescribe certain medications, but assessment and follow-up are usually conducted by a psychiatrist.

When is medication treatment usually considered?

1

When symptoms persist over time.

2

When there is significant impairment in daily functioning.

3

When psychological treatment alone does not provide sufficient relief.

Important to know

Important to know

  • During treatment, medical follow-up is conducted to adjust the medication dosage and monitor side effects.
  • As mentioned, in many cases, combining medication treatment with psychological treatment may be particularly effective.
  • Sometimes it takes several weeks before the full effect of the medication is felt.

Hypnosis

A therapeutic method based on creating a state of heightened concentration and focused attention, which allows deeper access to internal experiences, emotions, and thought patterns. In this state, the person remains aware of their surroundings and maintains control over the process, while their attention is more focused.

The use of tools such as guided imagery, therapeutic suggestions, such as messages aimed at relaxation, strengthening a sense of control and safety, and changing automatic responses, as well as additional techniques, all help explore and understand experiences and reduce emotional or physical distress. Hypnosis can help with conditions such as anxiety, phobias, chronic pain, sleep disorders, and psychological stress. It can also be used as a focused treatment on its own or integrated as part of a broader psychotherapy process, depending on the needs and goals of treatment.

In Israel, hypnosis treatment can only be provided by professionals who hold a hypnosis license from the Ministry of Health, such as psychologists, physicians, or psychiatrists who have received specialized training in the field.

Biofeedback

Biofeedback is a treatment method based on the connection between the body and mind and combines principles from the fields of psychology and physiology. Using specialized equipment, real-time feedback is provided on bodily processes such as heart rate, breathing, muscle tension, or skin conductivity.

The treatment focuses on learning how to identify and consciously influence automatic physiological responses, especially in situations of stress, anxiety, or emotional overload. The goal is to develop self-regulation skills and regain a sense of control over the body's responses.

During sessions, sensors are attached to the body, and the patient receives visual or audio feedback about their physiological state. Through practicing breathing, relaxation, and guided imagery, patients learn to change their physical responses in real time. Over time, this ability becomes integrated and can also be used outside the therapy setting.

Treatment is provided by mental health or healthcare professionals (such as psychologists, emotional therapists, or physical therapists) who have received specialized training in the field.

Meditation and mindfulness

Meditation and mindfulness are practices that focus on developing awareness and presence in the moment and are now also used as tools that help strengthen mental resilience and reduce stress and anxiety. Regular practice of these methods can help improve the ability to regulate emotions, cope with overwhelming thoughts, and increase a sense of calm and focus. The main difference between them:

An umbrella term for a wide range of practices aimed at developing concentration, awareness, and inner reflection. It is important to know that meditation practice does not require previous experience, but like any skill, it requires consistency and practice over time. For many people, it is a complementary tool that can support therapeutic processes and strengthen a sense of balance and mental well-being.

A specific type of meditative practice that focuses on directing attention to the experience occurring in the present moment, including thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations, while attempting to observe them openly and without judgment.

One of the main goals of mindfulness practice is to learn to recognize thoughts and emotions without automatically being carried away by them. This creates space between the experience and the response to it and helps develop more balanced ways of coping with stress, anxiety, or emotional overload.

Therapists who have received training in this field.

Mind-body treatments

Treatments based on the understanding that emotional experiences, especially stress and trauma, are not experienced only through thoughts and emotions but are also felt in the body. Sometimes experiences that have not been fully processed may be expressed through physical tension, heightened alertness, emotional overwhelm, or a sense of disconnection.

One of the main approaches in this field is Somatic Experiencing (SE), a therapeutic approach that offers gradual and personalized work with bodily sensations, helping reduce tension, strengthen a sense of inner safety, and restore balance to the entire system.

Who is qualified to provide treatment: Therapists who have received training in this field.

Group therapy

A shared space, guided by a professional, where sharing and listening create mutual learning, broaden understanding, and foster a sense of belonging, together promoting personal growth and change. In this space, the patients themselves serve as a source of support and change for one another. Sometimes, simply meeting people who are also coping with difficulties reduces feelings of loneliness and allows people to see their challenges from new perspectives, as well as learn additional coping styles. The group also provides an opportunity to explore interpersonal patterns within a supportive therapeutic environment and practice new ways of communicating and coping.

It is very broad and includes groups focused on coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, addictions, interpersonal difficulties, or life crises. There are also groups designed for specific situations, such as coping with loss, chronic illness, parenting, or significant life changes. In addition, there are "dynamic groups" that focus on improving communication skills and self-understanding through experiences within the group setting.

It is important to know: In various healthcare settings, such as hospitals and clinics, therapeutic groups are available for both patients and family members who need support and guidance.

Group therapy may be suitable for people who are interested in working on relationships, strengthening a sense of belonging, and practicing new ways of communicating with others. It can also be appropriate for people who feel lonely or are seeking support from others facing similar challenges. However, some people initially prefer individual therapy or find it difficult to open up in a group setting, especially at the beginning. In such cases, it is possible to start with individual therapy and later consider joining a group, or even participating in a group alongside individual therapy.

Mental health professionals who have received specialized training in group therapy.

Play therapy

A therapeutic approach designed primarily for children, based on the understanding that play is the natural and primary way children express themselves. While adults use spoken language to express emotions and thoughts, children express their inner world through play and imagination.

The child uses toys, dolls, drawing, arts and crafts, or other materials to express experiences, emotions, and internal conflicts. The therapist guides the process by observing, interpreting, and sometimes participating in the play in ways that help the child process experiences and develop new coping strategies. In this way, play therapy provides a safe space where children can express emotions that are difficult to put into words, process complex experiences or stressful situations, develop social and emotional skills, and strengthen their sense of safety and control.

An integral part of emotional treatment for children, based on the understanding that meaningful change in a child's life requires a supportive environment in their everyday surroundings. The process helps parents and the therapist develop a shared understanding of the child's emotional and behavioral challenges and translate that understanding into daily life. Creating a shared language and coordination between the therapy room and home can support the child's growth and help maintain the benefits of treatment over time.

Mental health professionals who have received specialized training in play therapy.

Dyadic therapy

A therapeutic approach that focuses on the relationship between a child and one of their parents (or another primary caregiver), based on the understanding that this early relationship plays a central role in children's emotional and social development. During treatment, the parent and child attend sessions together with the therapist. In some cases, separate sessions with the parent are also included. The therapeutic focus is on their interactions: how they communicate, express emotions, respond to one another, and cope with challenging situations.

Strengthening the relationship between the parent and child, improving mutual understanding and the ability to recognize emotional needs, developing more effective ways of communicating, and supporting parents in coping with the challenges of parenting.

During the sessions, the therapist helps the parent "translate" the child's inner world, understand the meaning behind different behaviors, and respond in a way that is appropriate and emotionally regulated. At the same time, the child experiences the parent as available, understanding, and supportive.

For situations involving difficulties with the child's emotional regulation, behavioral problems, challenges in the parent-child relationship, crisis situations (such as divorce, relocation, or illness), experiences of trauma or loss, or difficulties in emotional or social development during early childhood.

Mental health professionals who have received specialized training in dyadic therapy.

Additional treatments

There are also treatments that offer a broader response with unique characteristics and are more tailored to specific needs, such as art therapy, animal-assisted therapy, or couples and family therapy. It is important to note that, in many cases, combining different therapeutic approaches allows for a more precise and beneficial treatment process. Therefore, it is important to choose a treatment framework that is suited to each person's individual needs.

Dr. Adi Lavi-Rotenberg is an expert rehabilitation psychologist and an expert member of איט"ה. She is a psychologist at Zohar Clinic, Rambam Health Care Campus. She is a lecturer in the Department of Community Mental Health, University of Haifa.

Liat Ariel is an expert clinical psychologist, supervisor, and group analyst. She is the Director of the Psychological Services Division, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa. She is Head of the School for Applied Psychology and Head of the Psychotherapy Program, Continuing Medical Education, Technion.