Types of behavioural therapy

The type of therapy used can depend on a variety of factors, including the condition being treated and the severity of the person’s symptoms.

Applied behavioural analysis

Applied behavioural analysis uses operant conditioning to shape and modify problematic behaviours.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) relies on behavioural techniques,
but adds a cognitive element, focusing on the problematic thoughts
behind behaviours.

Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) is a form of CBT that utilises
both behavioural and cognitive techniques to help people learn
to manage their emotions, cope with distress, and improve interpersonal relationships. DBT techniques are often used for clients who have borderline personality disorder.

Exposure Therapy

Exposure Therapy utilises behavioural techniques to help overcome
people’s fears of situations or objects.  This approach incorporates techniques that expose people to the source of their fears while practicing relaxation strategies.  It is useful for treating specific phobias and other forms of anxiety.

Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT)

Rational Emotive Behaviour Therapy (REBT) focuses on identifying negative or destructive thoughts and feelings.  People then actively challenge those thoughts and replace them with more rational, realistic ones.

Social Learning Theory centres on how people learn through observation.  Observing others being rewarded or punished for their actions can lead to learning and behaviour change.