Positive Psychology Therapists in 92037

Photo of Tatiana Anastasia Chircop Rollick, PhD, MA, MS, Psychologist
Tatiana Anastasia Chircop Rollick
Psychologist, PhD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
This person centered approach w/core tenants of Positive Psychology aims to demystify non-descript confusing medical terms in mental health.
Dr. Chircop-Rollick earned her B.A. in Counseling Psychology graduating Cuma Sum Luda from Hawaii Pacific University.She received her from Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA. Dr. Chircop-Rollick completed her M.S in Psych continuing onto a Dual PhD in Clinical Psychology and Industrial Psychology at California School of Professional Psych in San Diego; She is published in several peer reviewed, NIH funded journals Randomized Controlled Trial of Nurse-Delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy VS Supportive Psychotherapy Telehealth Interventions for Chronic Back Pain Journal of Pain 19(9) April 2018 (Chircop-Rollick et Al). Randomized
This person centered approach w/core tenants of Positive Psychology aims to demystify non-descript confusing medical terms in mental health.
Dr. Chircop-Rollick earned her B.A. in Counseling Psychology graduating Cuma Sum Luda from Hawaii Pacific University.She received her from Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA. Dr. Chircop-Rollick completed her M.S in Psych continuing onto a Dual PhD in Clinical Psychology and Industrial Psychology at California School of Professional Psych in San Diego; She is published in several peer reviewed, NIH funded journals Randomized Controlled Trial of Nurse-Delivered Cognitive Behavioral Therapy VS Supportive Psychotherapy Telehealth Interventions for Chronic Back Pain Journal of Pain 19(9) April 2018 (Chircop-Rollick et Al). Randomized
(858) 358-3795 View (858) 358-3795
Photo of Jonathan M Kramer, PhD, Psychologist
Jonathan M Kramer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Positive psychology orientation.
Practical Help. Results Oriented. I've had 30+ years of professional experience helping Couples and Individual Adults have the life they want. I've been married 30+ years and know how to help you have a successful relationship too. Stop repeating old patterns. Make changes for the better. Understand what's going wrong and know what to do about it - get control, communicate clearly, reignite the passion. Author, 'Why Men Don't Get Enough Sex & Women Don't Get Enough Love'; Editor 'Good Loving' (Men' Health). Results Oriented. Solution Focused. Email or Call Today for a Happier Tomorrow! I will help you have the life you want.
Positive psychology orientation.
Practical Help. Results Oriented. I've had 30+ years of professional experience helping Couples and Individual Adults have the life they want. I've been married 30+ years and know how to help you have a successful relationship too. Stop repeating old patterns. Make changes for the better. Understand what's going wrong and know what to do about it - get control, communicate clearly, reignite the passion. Author, 'Why Men Don't Get Enough Sex & Women Don't Get Enough Love'; Editor 'Good Loving' (Men' Health). Results Oriented. Solution Focused. Email or Call Today for a Happier Tomorrow! I will help you have the life you want.
(858) 376-7948 View (858) 376-7948
Photo of John Lee Evans Psychologist, PhD, Psychologist
John Lee Evans Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Evans also utilizes Positive Psychology to assist already successful people to achieve optimal functioning.
People want straight talk from a psychologist, not psychobabble. They don’t want a passive therapist who just listens. Nor do they want a know-it-all to tell them exactly what to do. They want a competent psychologist who gives real feedback about what he sees going on. They want someone with real life experience who can relate to their problems as a professional, a parent or a child. Before becoming a psychologist, Dr. Evans had experience serving in the Peace Corps, running a business, getting married and having children.
Evans also utilizes Positive Psychology to assist already successful people to achieve optimal functioning.
People want straight talk from a psychologist, not psychobabble. They don’t want a passive therapist who just listens. Nor do they want a know-it-all to tell them exactly what to do. They want a competent psychologist who gives real feedback about what he sees going on. They want someone with real life experience who can relate to their problems as a professional, a parent or a child. Before becoming a psychologist, Dr. Evans had experience serving in the Peace Corps, running a business, getting married and having children.
(858) 673-9600 View (858) 673-9600
Photo of Russell F Fuller, JD, PsyD, DCEP, Psychologist
Russell F Fuller
Psychologist, JD, PsyD, DCEP
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Dr. Fuller offers a comprehensive method of psychotherapy which integrates elements from the humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, energy psychology, gestalt, mindfulness, complex trauma, and positive psychology fields. He works with each person individually to construct a useful approach to problem resolution in as efficient and cost-effective a manner as possible. Dr. Fuller also offers brief consulting services which address areas in which a person feels "blocked" or somehow unable to perform at their best, e.g., parenting, financial prosperity, forming healthy relationships, and peak performance in business or sports.
Dr. Fuller offers a comprehensive method of psychotherapy which integrates elements from the humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, energy psychology, gestalt, mindfulness, complex trauma, and positive psychology fields. He works with each person individually to construct a useful approach to problem resolution in as efficient and cost-effective a manner as possible. Dr. Fuller also offers brief consulting services which address areas in which a person feels "blocked" or somehow unable to perform at their best, e.g., parenting, financial prosperity, forming healthy relationships, and peak performance in business or sports.
(858) 215-1921 View (858) 215-1921
Photo of Janice Graham, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janice Graham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
You can find relief and discover more joy working collaboratively in a supportive and interactive approach. If you are looking for a therapist with extensive experience working with couples and individuals dealing with anxiety depression and stress reach out. If you’re struggling with relationships issues you can learn to communicate more effectively and assess what issues are creating the problems or blocks. I also enjoy working with families and helping them process old patterns and creating healthy new ones. My approach is based on a a combination of positive psychology and mindfulness for lasting change.
You can find relief and discover more joy working collaboratively in a supportive and interactive approach. If you are looking for a therapist with extensive experience working with couples and individuals dealing with anxiety depression and stress reach out. If you’re struggling with relationships issues you can learn to communicate more effectively and assess what issues are creating the problems or blocks. I also enjoy working with families and helping them process old patterns and creating healthy new ones. My approach is based on a a combination of positive psychology and mindfulness for lasting change.
(858) 328-4863 View (858) 328-4863
Photo of Laura J Proctor, PhD, Psychologist
Laura J Proctor
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness and positive psychology.
I work with clients in a collaborative relationship to create lasting positive change. Together we can alleviate your emotional suffering, identify your strengths, change old patterns, increase self-compassion, formulate goals, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, navigate transitions, and make life meaningful and fulfilling. Wherever you are in your process will be our starting point. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, family of origin issues, relationships, academic/work challenges, identity, culture, grief and loss, and life transitions. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and communities.
I use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness and positive psychology.
I work with clients in a collaborative relationship to create lasting positive change. Together we can alleviate your emotional suffering, identify your strengths, change old patterns, increase self-compassion, formulate goals, strengthen coping skills, enhance relationships, navigate transitions, and make life meaningful and fulfilling. Wherever you are in your process will be our starting point. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, family of origin issues, relationships, academic/work challenges, identity, culture, grief and loss, and life transitions. I welcome clients from all backgrounds and communities.
(858) 304-7640 View (858) 304-7640
Photo of Deborah Cosmetis, PsyD, Psychologist
Deborah Cosmetis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I use a blend of theories and methods from my training in relational gestalt therapy, cognitive behavioral, humanistic, existential, positive psychology, and buddhist psychology.
Throughout life we are all faced with stressors, traumas, and times of transition. During these times, it can be helpful to speak to a professional for guidance as you navigate life’s unavoidable challenges. As a licensed psychologist, I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and supportive space for self exploration and personal growth. Together we will explore the places you feel stuck, process past events, deepen self understanding, and cultivate self acceptance so that you may experience longer lasting happiness, more fulfilling connections, and a more meaningful life.
I use a blend of theories and methods from my training in relational gestalt therapy, cognitive behavioral, humanistic, existential, positive psychology, and buddhist psychology.
Throughout life we are all faced with stressors, traumas, and times of transition. During these times, it can be helpful to speak to a professional for guidance as you navigate life’s unavoidable challenges. As a licensed psychologist, I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and supportive space for self exploration and personal growth. Together we will explore the places you feel stuck, process past events, deepen self understanding, and cultivate self acceptance so that you may experience longer lasting happiness, more fulfilling connections, and a more meaningful life.
(619) 552-3545 View (619) 552-3545
Photo of Jenna Borrelli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenna Borrelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I tailor my approach to best fit each person's needs but draw from the following theoretical orientations/modalities: CBT, motivational interviewing, mindfulness practices, solution-focused therapy, and positive psychology.
Hello- I'm Jenna Borrelli and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and Maryland. My background is in working with individuals and families. I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family issues, parenting challenges, life transitions, and personal growth/exploratory work. I am competent and enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ community as well. Making the decision to start therapy is your first and usually biggest hurdle toward feeling better or making a change in your life.
I tailor my approach to best fit each person's needs but draw from the following theoretical orientations/modalities: CBT, motivational interviewing, mindfulness practices, solution-focused therapy, and positive psychology.
Hello- I'm Jenna Borrelli and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California and Maryland. My background is in working with individuals and families. I have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family issues, parenting challenges, life transitions, and personal growth/exploratory work. I am competent and enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ community as well. Making the decision to start therapy is your first and usually biggest hurdle toward feeling better or making a change in your life.
(657) 571-1180 View (657) 571-1180
Photo of Amanda Newman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Newman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I specialize in evidence-based, client-centered therapies--EMDR*, Cognitive Therapy, Mindfulness and Positive Psychology.
Welcome! Since you're reading this, I imagine a part of you wants to change something in yourself or your life. I'm here to support you being successful in achieving your therapy goals! You want therapy that works; that is why I only use evidence-based therapies that provide results you can count on! I specialize in working with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma, identity and relationship issues. You're looking for a therapist that is kind and caring, listens to and respects you. This is who I am and what I offer you. Call or email me now and see if I feel like a good fit for you!
I specialize in evidence-based, client-centered therapies--EMDR*, Cognitive Therapy, Mindfulness and Positive Psychology.
Welcome! Since you're reading this, I imagine a part of you wants to change something in yourself or your life. I'm here to support you being successful in achieving your therapy goals! You want therapy that works; that is why I only use evidence-based therapies that provide results you can count on! I specialize in working with adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma, identity and relationship issues. You're looking for a therapist that is kind and caring, listens to and respects you. This is who I am and what I offer you. Call or email me now and see if I feel like a good fit for you!
(619) 332-0788 View (619) 332-0788
Photo of Denise L Buchanan, PhD, Psychologist
Denise L Buchanan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I utilize strength based solution-focused interventions from Positive Psychology and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Psychology.
My passion is to help my clients feel empowered in their lives and to live more resiliently. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to achieve the best version of themselves, repair their relationships, and find more meaning and joy in their lives. I am a Christian therapist and have had the privilege to be in private practice for over 20 years, working with individuals and couples. I am confident from my clinical experience that therapy works to improve clients' sense of wellbeing and overall satisfaction in their lives.
I utilize strength based solution-focused interventions from Positive Psychology and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Psychology.
My passion is to help my clients feel empowered in their lives and to live more resiliently. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to achieve the best version of themselves, repair their relationships, and find more meaning and joy in their lives. I am a Christian therapist and have had the privilege to be in private practice for over 20 years, working with individuals and couples. I am confident from my clinical experience that therapy works to improve clients' sense of wellbeing and overall satisfaction in their lives.
(619) 853-4097 View (619) 853-4097
Photo of Dr. Caroline Rodriguez, PhD, HSP, Psychologist
Dr. Caroline Rodriguez
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
She utilizes a person-centered orientation, integrated with multicultural, holistic, positive psychology, and motivational interviewing.
Dr. Caroline Rodriguez is a licensed sport and counseling psychologist who is passionate about empowering individuals to unlock their full potential. Her professional experiences include working with Olympic, collegiate, and professional athletes, and she served as a sport psychologist for the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) for 5 years, where she served as a Sport Psychologist for her teams and NGBs at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, World Championships, World Cups, and domestic competitions.
She utilizes a person-centered orientation, integrated with multicultural, holistic, positive psychology, and motivational interviewing.
Dr. Caroline Rodriguez is a licensed sport and counseling psychologist who is passionate about empowering individuals to unlock their full potential. Her professional experiences include working with Olympic, collegiate, and professional athletes, and she served as a sport psychologist for the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) for 5 years, where she served as a Sport Psychologist for her teams and NGBs at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, World Championships, World Cups, and domestic competitions.
(619) 313-6906 View (619) 313-6906
Photo of Gina Francesca Regalbuto, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Francesca Regalbuto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence-based practices to assist clients and those EBPs include (CBT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (DBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care, Somatic Techniques, (MI) Motivational Interviewing, and Positive Psychology.
Hello, my name is Gina Regalbuto and I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing in California. My specialization is in healing trauma, depression, and anxiety and the symptoms and stressors that follow as a result. I have also worked extensively with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and borderline personality disorder. I primarily practice through the lens of psychodynamic theory and I am an eclectic provider who utilizes the modality that serves my client's the best. I am also a certified yoga teacher so I can teach client's calming breathing techniques if they are interested in learning other ways to manage emotions.
I utilize evidence-based practices to assist clients and those EBPs include (CBT) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (DBT) Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care, Somatic Techniques, (MI) Motivational Interviewing, and Positive Psychology.
Hello, my name is Gina Regalbuto and I am a licensed clinical social worker practicing in California. My specialization is in healing trauma, depression, and anxiety and the symptoms and stressors that follow as a result. I have also worked extensively with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and borderline personality disorder. I primarily practice through the lens of psychodynamic theory and I am an eclectic provider who utilizes the modality that serves my client's the best. I am also a certified yoga teacher so I can teach client's calming breathing techniques if they are interested in learning other ways to manage emotions.
(310) 683-4693 View (310) 683-4693
Photo of Ashley Deleon, MA, LMFT, Coach, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Deleon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, Coach
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Do you have a hard time expressing your feelings that results in feeling anxious or sad? Do you feel unheard or misunderstood? I love to help individuals who are serious about their healing journey and ready to take the next step. Let's get your power back that resides inside of you to establish a sense of happiness, fulfillment, self-worth, self-love, and wholeness utilizing a holistic approach. have worked working with victims of sexual assault, women recovering from addiction, children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I believe in focusing on the whole body for long-lasting results. Email is best to contact me!
Do you have a hard time expressing your feelings that results in feeling anxious or sad? Do you feel unheard or misunderstood? I love to help individuals who are serious about their healing journey and ready to take the next step. Let's get your power back that resides inside of you to establish a sense of happiness, fulfillment, self-worth, self-love, and wholeness utilizing a holistic approach. have worked working with victims of sexual assault, women recovering from addiction, children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I believe in focusing on the whole body for long-lasting results. Email is best to contact me!
(858) 358-7098 View (858) 358-7098
Photo of Erika Kyte, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Kyte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I work best with clients who are ready to let go of old automatic patterns and choose their own and those who are open to all the richness that is accessible in Life. I am passionate about supporting individuals in increasing self-awareness and making intentional life choices. I would love to share some techniques with you for your journey while supporting you compassionately along the way. You can expect to feel comfortable and seen and validated.
I work best with clients who are ready to let go of old automatic patterns and choose their own and those who are open to all the richness that is accessible in Life. I am passionate about supporting individuals in increasing self-awareness and making intentional life choices. I would love to share some techniques with you for your journey while supporting you compassionately along the way. You can expect to feel comfortable and seen and validated.
(858) 227-6148 View (858) 227-6148
Photo of undefined - Bridges Therapy Group of CA, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bridges Therapy Group of CA
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges or simply seeking personal growth, our dedicated team of over 50 experienced and compassionate mental health professionals is here to guide and support you on your path toward healing and happiness. Our practice uses a fully virtual model to offer affordable, accessible and effective mental health care for individuals across the state of California.
At Bridges Therapy Group of California, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges or simply seeking personal growth, our dedicated team of over 50 experienced and compassionate mental health professionals is here to guide and support you on your path toward healing and happiness. Our practice uses a fully virtual model to offer affordable, accessible and effective mental health care for individuals across the state of California.
(858) 943-2312 View (858) 943-2312
Photo of M. Gene Ondrusek, PhD, Psychologist
M. Gene Ondrusek
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Waitlist for new clients
After 35 years in the San Diego area, I feel particularly well suited to working with clients with a variety of "problems in living." Managing stress, lifestyle balance, coping with relationship issues, and workplace difficulties affect us all, and having professional support and input is now not only acceptable, but crucial. And, research has shown that of all the factors that are key in predicting a positive outcome in any form of therapy, the quality of the relationship with your therapist is the most important. And that is my focus!
After 35 years in the San Diego area, I feel particularly well suited to working with clients with a variety of "problems in living." Managing stress, lifestyle balance, coping with relationship issues, and workplace difficulties affect us all, and having professional support and input is now not only acceptable, but crucial. And, research has shown that of all the factors that are key in predicting a positive outcome in any form of therapy, the quality of the relationship with your therapist is the most important. And that is my focus!
(858) 215-1990 View (858) 215-1990
Photo of Dr. Mary Spease, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Mary Spease
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
I believe therapy can be a challenging and illuminating journey in which you have the chance to learn more about yourself, your approach/perspective on life, and the dynamics in important relationships. Throughout the therapy process, I view my clients through a lens of strength where common life dilemmas are seen as an opportunity to develop a stronger capacity for personal understanding and nurture deeper, more intimate relationships. Whether you are seeking support in response to relationship concerns, life transitions, addiction/recovery, or are the loved one of an addict, therapy can help identify & clarify underlying feelings & patterns of behavior.
I believe therapy can be a challenging and illuminating journey in which you have the chance to learn more about yourself, your approach/perspective on life, and the dynamics in important relationships. Throughout the therapy process, I view my clients through a lens of strength where common life dilemmas are seen as an opportunity to develop a stronger capacity for personal understanding and nurture deeper, more intimate relationships. Whether you are seeking support in response to relationship concerns, life transitions, addiction/recovery, or are the loved one of an addict, therapy can help identify & clarify underlying feelings & patterns of behavior.
(858) 888-3261 View (858) 888-3261
Photo of undefined - Laine Lipsky, Parenting Coach, MAT, CPE
Laine Lipsky, Parenting Coach
MAT, CPE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
If you have a "challenging" child (e.g., defiant, strong-willed, sensitive, ADHD, explosive) you need support. I train parents to raise their child(ren) without yelling, shame, blame, bribes or threats – even if they are stuck in these cycles right now. Having a difficult child makes parenting harder than usual, but you can learn how to get your whole family to thrive, not just survive. I know you want positive, loving bonds with your kids for life - let's get started! To book a free consult visit: www.lainelipsky.com/call
If you have a "challenging" child (e.g., defiant, strong-willed, sensitive, ADHD, explosive) you need support. I train parents to raise their child(ren) without yelling, shame, blame, bribes or threats – even if they are stuck in these cycles right now. Having a difficult child makes parenting harder than usual, but you can learn how to get your whole family to thrive, not just survive. I know you want positive, loving bonds with your kids for life - let's get started! To book a free consult visit: www.lainelipsky.com/call
View
Photo of Vincent Oviedo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vincent Oviedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I am an empathetic, client-centered, nonjudgmental listener with a passion for health, fitness, and personal transformation. I encourage mindfulness to calm the mind and meditation to relax the soul for growth, success, and positive change. I love to combine therapy with coaching to help people reach their full potential while enjoying life with zest, peace.
I am an empathetic, client-centered, nonjudgmental listener with a passion for health, fitness, and personal transformation. I encourage mindfulness to calm the mind and meditation to relax the soul for growth, success, and positive change. I love to combine therapy with coaching to help people reach their full potential while enjoying life with zest, peace.
(831) 264-0361 View (831) 264-0361
Photo of Moira Haller, PhD, Psychologist
Moira Haller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Have you experienced a traumatic event you cannot seem to get out of your mind? Do anxiety and worry get in the way of living your best life? Does constant stress suck the joy out of life? Do you have trouble falling or staying asleep? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I may be the right therapist for you. I want you to know that recovery is possible, no matter how long you have been struggling. My practice specializes in treating PTSD, trauma-related guilt, anxiety disorders (e.g., social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic disorder), insomnia, stress from infertility/pregnancy loss, and addiction/dual-diagnosis.
Have you experienced a traumatic event you cannot seem to get out of your mind? Do anxiety and worry get in the way of living your best life? Does constant stress suck the joy out of life? Do you have trouble falling or staying asleep? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I may be the right therapist for you. I want you to know that recovery is possible, no matter how long you have been struggling. My practice specializes in treating PTSD, trauma-related guilt, anxiety disorders (e.g., social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic disorder), insomnia, stress from infertility/pregnancy loss, and addiction/dual-diagnosis.
(858) 267-4193 View (858) 267-4193
Positive Psychology Therapists

How does positive psychology therapy work?

Positive psychology therapy derives from the work of Martin Seligman of the University of Pennsylvania. He and others developed the field of positive psychology building on humanistic theory. Positive psychology therapy is similar to acceptance and commitment therapy, and it essentially quiets emotional distress through positivity, contentment, and well-being. This therapy does not reduce the individual to symptoms and conditions.

When do I know if I need treatment using positive psychology?

If an individual is overwhelmed by emotional distress and general negativity, they may feel trapped. A positive psychology therapist can help them view their emotions and behaviors differently, and approach life with a better understanding of their positive strengths. This therapy can provide an individual with the coping skills needed for a healthier and more constructive life.

What should I expect from positive psychology therapy?

The patient may be asked to explore their signature strengths. The therapist will also ask the individual to talk about their goals, which should be specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely. Discussing negative experiences and symptoms is important, but so is the exploration of positive experiences. The objective is to identify and lessen negative thoughts and behaviors and move toward optimal health and productivity. The individual will see life in a more positive and fulfilling way. This therapy is proactive and may use forgiveness, gratitude, hope, and compassion to help reframe negativity.

Is positive psychology effective in therapy?

Positive psychology therapy is evidence-based and effective. One study found that people with eating disorders benefit from this type of intervention. This therapy encourages the person to reframe their distressed thoughts and move into healthier patterns of functioning. This therapy also aims to move an individual toward what works well in their life. Positive psychology therapy can elicit lifelong change, with higher levels of satisfaction, less stress, as well as positive emotional and behavioral habits.