Supportive psychotherapy is a form of therapeutic intervention that focuses on providing emotional and psychological support to people who are experiencing difficulties or challenges in their lives. Unlike some deeper, longer-term therapeutic modalities, supportive psychotherapy focuses on providing a safe and supportive space where individuals can express their emotions, receive practical guidance, and strengthen their internal resources to manage their problems. This form of therapy is especially useful for those who are going through moments of crisis, stress or major transitions, as well as for those seeking a brief, present-focused intervention.
Main characteristics of supportive psychotherapy
1. Focus on emotional support
One of the most notable features of supportive psychotherapy is its focus on providing emotional support to patients. Therapists who work with this therapeutic modality focus on creating a bond of trust with the individual, offering empathy, validation and emotional support. This support is essential for the person to feel heard, understood and accompanied in their process of change and growth.
2. Practical guidance and concrete solutions
Although supportive psychotherapy focuses on the emotional aspect, it also includes practical guidance to help patients face their problems in a concrete way. Therapists provide tools, strategies and practical advice that can be applied in the individual's daily life, allowing them to face their difficulties in a more effective and adaptive way.
3. Focused on the present and the patient's resources
Another important characteristic of supportive psychotherapy is its focus on the present and the patient's internal resources. Unlike some therapies more oriented to the past or a deep analysis of the personality, this therapeutic modality focuses on the individual's current needs and concerns, as well as enhancing their own abilities and strengths to overcome present challenges.
4. Brevity and focus on therapeutic objectives
Supportive psychotherapy tends to be briefer and more focused compared to other longer, more exploratory forms of therapy. Therapists establish clear and concrete therapeutic goals in collaboration with the patient, working in a practical and direct manner to achieve these goals in a relatively short period of time.
Applications of supportive psychotherapy
1. Moments of crisis and acute stress
Supportive psychotherapy is a valuable tool in moments of crisis and acute stress, as it provides a safe and containing space where people can express their emotions, receive emotional support and guidance practice to deal with the situation more effectively. This therapeutic modality can be especially useful in situations such as the loss of a loved one, a serious illness, a traumatic accident, or an unexpected stressful event.
2. Major life transitions
Major life transitions, such as changing jobs, moving to a new place, retiring, or having a child, can create stress and emotional challenges that may benefit from supportive psychotherapy . In these moments of change and adaptation, having a therapeutic space where you can reflect, receive emotional support and practical tools to face the situation can be of great help to overcome challenges and grow personally.
3. Mild to moderate mental health problems
Supportive psychotherapy can also be an effective intervention for people experiencing mild to moderate mental health problems, such as anxiety, depression, stress, or low self-esteem. This therapeutic modality provides a space for emotional containment, practical guidance and psychological support that can contribute to improving the emotional well-being and quality of life of the individuals who receive it.
4. Strengthening self-esteem and resilience
In addition to addressing specific problems, supportive psychotherapy can also focus on strengthening patients' self-esteem, resilience, and coping skills. Through the construction of a solid therapeutic relationship, the promotion of self-exploration and the development of strategies to cope with stress and adversity, this therapeutic modality can contribute to the personal growth and emotional strengthening of the individuals who participate in it.
Conclusions
In summary, supportive psychotherapy is a form of therapeutic intervention that focuses on providing emotional support, practical guidance, and strengthening patients' internal resources. With a focus on the present, brevity, and a focus on therapeutic goals, this therapeutic modality is especially useful in times of crisis, major life transitions, mild to moderate mental health problems, and to strengthen self-esteem and resilience. the individuals. By providing a safe, supportive, and action-oriented space, supportive psychotherapy can be a valuable tool in promoting the emotional well-being and personal growth of those who receive it.