Discover the characteristics and benefits of humanistic therapy

In opposition to the techniques and objectives of psychoanalysis and Behaviorism (theory that studies human psychology through the observation of behavior), humanistic therapy originated in the 1950s from the studies of the American psychologist Abraham Maslow. In general, this approach argues that psychotherapeutic intervention should focus on people’s desire for self-realization.

A therapy humanist considers the capacities and potentials of the individual. “She doesn’t look for what went wrong or what didn’t work out for her. It does not look at the individual as a victim of his own history, but as an agent of transformation in his life. That is, she considers being free and responsible, who positions herself in front of her past as the owner of her future”, exemplifies Fabiana Antonelli, psychologist and mentor of Carreira e Vida.

Techniques used

According to Juliana Chiavassa, psychologist and specialist in Mental Health and Human Development, the main techniques used in humanistic therapy are:

• Self-concept: how the patient perceives his individual characteristics;
• Self image: how the patient sees and describes himself;
• Ideal self: how the patient would like to be, which includes values, behaviors and characteristics.

During therapy, psychologist Fabiana Antonelli explains that a dialogue empathetic. In it, the therapist respects and accepts the patient as he is, as well as his pace and autonomy within therapy.

Benefits of humanistic therapy

With the aim of treating mental health conditions and helping the individual to reconnect with who he is, humanistic therapy “becomes very effective in the treatment of depression and anxiety, as it leads the person to reflect and recognize his strengths, qualitiesskills and talents”, evaluates Fabiana Antonelli.

For whom is the humanistic approach indicated?

In general, humanistic therapy is indicated for everyone who wants to look at themselves as a unique and total being. However, Fabiana Antonelli states that, as it does not consider only disorders, this approach is better suited for those who have not experienced major traumas or conflicts.

duration of treatment

According to Fabiana Antonelli, there is no specific time to stay in treatment, because everything will depend on individual evolution. “The therapy is carried out according to the patient’s own choices, pace and dedication. Thus, well-being, autonomy and self-realization are the indicators of the time of this therapeutic process”, clarifies the specialist.

Humanistic therapy and drug use

As with other therapies, the model humanist it may or may not also be aligned with the use of medicines. “According to the patient’s needs, there is an indication of the use of medication so that he can have greater power to cope with the crisis”, comments Fabiana Antonelli.

However, the expert points out that no psychologist can prescribe medication, as this task is only up to the psychiatrist. “The ideal thing is to establish a partnership between doctor, patient and psychologist”, she emphasizes.

Differences between humanistic therapy and other approaches

All psychotherapy presents techniques and goals that make it different from the others. Psychologist Juliana Chiavassa reveals that one of the biggest differentiations of the humanist approach is the comprehensive look at man, always placing him in a position of being potent and creative.

In addition, the relationship between therapist and patient also differs, “since the professional is not the person who holds the power of knowledge. He is not the expert on the person’s story, but the expert on the conversation,” he adds.