These three “main” types of therapy sound confusing. However, they all center on thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Cognitive therapy starts with thoughts (of suicide, for example) and works toward changing feelings and behavior. Psychodynamic therapy emphasizes feelings (such as depression or anxiety) and works to change thoughts and behaviors. Behavioral therapy starts with behavior (such as acting out, cutting, etc.) and works to change thoughts and feelings.
All three therapy types interact with each other, and all three approaches often are used together to help a client address thoughts, feelings, and behavior.
