Family systems theory assumes that the actions and emotions of each family member impact family relationships, even if the connection is not obvious at first. The focus of treatment in family systems approach may be something that clearly affects everyone in the family, such as the death of a loved one or marital conflict. Or it may be a more individual concern, such as an individual family member’s mental illness, physical, or emotional problems.

In narrative therapy, there is an emphasis on the stories that you develop and carry with you through your life. As you experience events and interactions, you give meaning to those experiences and they, in turn, influence how you see yourself and the world. You can carry multiple stories at once, such as those related to your self-esteem, abilities, relationships, and work.

The approach uses cognitive behavioral principles and exposure techniques to address symptoms of post-traumatic stress following trauma exposure as well as symptoms of depression, behavior problems, and caregiver difficulties.

Psychodynamic therapy focuses on the psychological roots of emotional suffering. It helps clients engage in self-reflection and self-examination.

Essentially, the therapeutic alliance encourages clients to dive into problematic relationship patterns, behaviors, and beliefs in their life. During therapy sessions, psychodynamic therapists evaluate thinking and behavioral patterns that clients have developed over time.

The Gottman Method is an approach to couples therapy that includes a thorough assessment of the couple’s relationship. The goals are to disarm conflicting verbal communication; increase intimacy, respect, and affection; remove barriers that create a feeling of stagnancy; and create a heightened sense of empathy and understanding within the context of the relationship.

Existential therapy aims to illuminate the way in which each unique person -- within certain inevitable limits and constraining factors -- comes to choose, create and perpetuate his or her own way of being in the world.  In both its theoretical orientation and practical approach, existential therapy emphasizes and honours the perpetually emerging, unfolding, and paradoxical nature of human experience, and brings an unquenchable curiosity to what it truly means to be human.