Positive Psychology Therapists in Berkley, MI

Photo of Karl Briedrick, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karl Briedrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Berkley, MI 48072  (Online Only)
I offer psychotherapy to adult individuals addressing concerns around mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and relationship issues. I also love working with young adults as they struggle through the complexities of emerging adulthood. Having previously worked as a musician and writer, I am uniquely attuned to the challenges facing artists and specialize in working with creative professionals. My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming and body positive. I foster a space of warmth, acceptance and depth through empathetic dialogue with my clients, valuing the diversity of their backgrounds and identities.
I offer psychotherapy to adult individuals addressing concerns around mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and relationship issues. I also love working with young adults as they struggle through the complexities of emerging adulthood. Having previously worked as a musician and writer, I am uniquely attuned to the challenges facing artists and specialize in working with creative professionals. My practice is LGBTQ+ affirming and body positive. I foster a space of warmth, acceptance and depth through empathetic dialogue with my clients, valuing the diversity of their backgrounds and identities.
(248) 706-8655 View (248) 706-8655
Photo of Lisa Franklin, LMSW, MPH, CTRS-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MPH, CTRS-C
Verified Verified
Berkley, MI 48072
I have over 20 years of experience in working with people with depression, anxiety, substance abuse (including those who want to quit smoking), and trauma. For the past ten years I have worked in Forensic Social Work with people with chronic mental illness including people with bipolar disorder and Schizophrenia helping them identify the path to wellness. I believe we spend too much time trying to eliminate uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. The reality is that we will never be totally free of discomfort. Learning to accept this and establish skills to live with and manage those emotions, can be the key to living your best life.
I have over 20 years of experience in working with people with depression, anxiety, substance abuse (including those who want to quit smoking), and trauma. For the past ten years I have worked in Forensic Social Work with people with chronic mental illness including people with bipolar disorder and Schizophrenia helping them identify the path to wellness. I believe we spend too much time trying to eliminate uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. The reality is that we will never be totally free of discomfort. Learning to accept this and establish skills to live with and manage those emotions, can be the key to living your best life.
(248) 955-1711 View (248) 955-1711
Photo of Caylan Healy, LPC, SCL, Counselor
Caylan Healy
Counselor, LPC, SCL
Verified Verified
Berkley, MI 48072
As a dedicated therapist, my mission is to provide a compassionate and affirming space for individuals navigating life’s complex transitions. With a focus on supporting queer identity and late-in-life queer transitions, I am passionate about helping clients embrace their authentic selves, no matter where they are on their journey.My practice is rooted in a sex-positive, non-judgmental approach, and I specialize in working with young women, those going through significant life transitions such as divorce, and single mothers seeking empowerment and balance.
As a dedicated therapist, my mission is to provide a compassionate and affirming space for individuals navigating life’s complex transitions. With a focus on supporting queer identity and late-in-life queer transitions, I am passionate about helping clients embrace their authentic selves, no matter where they are on their journey.My practice is rooted in a sex-positive, non-judgmental approach, and I specialize in working with young women, those going through significant life transitions such as divorce, and single mothers seeking empowerment and balance.
(248) 775-5705 View (248) 775-5705
Photo of Esmeralda Shaska - Esmeralda Shaska, LMSW, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Esmeralda Shaska, LMSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkley, MI 48072  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with Insomnia? Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, and waking up too early? Many people report having sleep problems at different times in their lives. Insomnia occurs when sleep problems last a long time. People feel like they are not getting enough sleep, or a good quality of sleep. Insomnia can reduce people's ability to function in their relationships, at work, at school, and in leisure activities. If you are struggling with Insomnia, I can help.
Do you struggle with Insomnia? Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, and waking up too early? Many people report having sleep problems at different times in their lives. Insomnia occurs when sleep problems last a long time. People feel like they are not getting enough sleep, or a good quality of sleep. Insomnia can reduce people's ability to function in their relationships, at work, at school, and in leisure activities. If you are struggling with Insomnia, I can help.
(248) 600-5190 View (248) 600-5190
Photo of Danielle Deveson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Deveson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Berkley, MI 48072
I have experience working individually with children, adolescents, and adults as well as families. I strive to connect with all of my clients on a deep authentic level while fostering a safe and supportive environment. People develop conscious and subconscious strategies of getting through difficult periods of their lives. Frequently, these strategies result in maladaptive behaviors, thought patterns, and interpersonal struggles. Through empathetic connections, nonjudgmental acceptance, and evidence based modalities, we can unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from your goals.
I have experience working individually with children, adolescents, and adults as well as families. I strive to connect with all of my clients on a deep authentic level while fostering a safe and supportive environment. People develop conscious and subconscious strategies of getting through difficult periods of their lives. Frequently, these strategies result in maladaptive behaviors, thought patterns, and interpersonal struggles. Through empathetic connections, nonjudgmental acceptance, and evidence based modalities, we can unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from your goals.
(248) 744-6917 View (248) 744-6917
Photo of Kaitlin Anne Bronstein, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaitlin Anne Bronstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkley, MI 48072
I am a Master's level clinical social worker, providing one-on-therapy. I graduated from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and have experience working with children, adolescents/teens, and adults. I use a client-centered focus to help each person build self-esteem and feel important. My areas of interest include individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and need support in their communication and peer or family relationships.
I am a Master's level clinical social worker, providing one-on-therapy. I graduated from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and have experience working with children, adolescents/teens, and adults. I use a client-centered focus to help each person build self-esteem and feel important. My areas of interest include individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and need support in their communication and peer or family relationships.
(248) 609-6528 View (248) 609-6528
Photo of Sheri Galens, MA, LPC, Counselor
Sheri Galens
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkley, MI 48072
I aid my clients in tapping into their inner wisdom to help heal their wounds, past & present. My approach is interactive, empathetic, compassionate & accepting. I work hard to get my clients the relief they are looking for, so I provide feedback & coping skills to keep you motivated. My scope of practice includes using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy & Solution Focused modalities with an emphasis on “healing” in order to help my clients achieve their best selves. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, codependency, stress, self esteem issues, life transitions and career challenges.
I aid my clients in tapping into their inner wisdom to help heal their wounds, past & present. My approach is interactive, empathetic, compassionate & accepting. I work hard to get my clients the relief they are looking for, so I provide feedback & coping skills to keep you motivated. My scope of practice includes using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy & Solution Focused modalities with an emphasis on “healing” in order to help my clients achieve their best selves. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, codependency, stress, self esteem issues, life transitions and career challenges.
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Photo of Jenna Debryn, MA, ATR, LPC, Counselor
Jenna Debryn
Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkley, MI 48072
Everyone deserves the opportunity to be the best version of themselves and sometimes we need support getting there. I am here to offer that support, however that may look for you. Therapy can be a transformative process that offers a number of possibilities. I believe everyone is unique and therapy is not a "one size fits all". Whether you are new to therapy looking to deal with life’s daily stress, looking for personal growth, or in need of some healing, we will work together as a team to make therapy right for you. I find joy in offering both a safe space and supportive ear to those looking and open to enlightenment and change.
Everyone deserves the opportunity to be the best version of themselves and sometimes we need support getting there. I am here to offer that support, however that may look for you. Therapy can be a transformative process that offers a number of possibilities. I believe everyone is unique and therapy is not a "one size fits all". Whether you are new to therapy looking to deal with life’s daily stress, looking for personal growth, or in need of some healing, we will work together as a team to make therapy right for you. I find joy in offering both a safe space and supportive ear to those looking and open to enlightenment and change.
(248) 418-4334 View (248) 418-4334
Photo of Alisha Whitney, LCSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alisha Whitney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Berkley, MI 48072
Many of us seek out therapy for different reasons; to gain better insight about ourselves and others, to be able to see the bigger picture more clearly, or to meet specific goals. I aim to offer a space where you can share without holding back, and without judgment, and where we can collaborate in gaining insight into impactful, long-held patterns and beliefs.
Many of us seek out therapy for different reasons; to gain better insight about ourselves and others, to be able to see the bigger picture more clearly, or to meet specific goals. I aim to offer a space where you can share without holding back, and without judgment, and where we can collaborate in gaining insight into impactful, long-held patterns and beliefs.
(947) 207-3674 View (947) 207-3674

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Pamela Vaccarelli, MA, PSYS, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Pamela Vaccarelli
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, PSYS, LLP
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48012
I draw from Positive Psychology, Eating Psychology, Yoga, Mindfulness, Cognitive Therapy, Coaching and more.
Hi! Are you struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, stress, weight issues, habits that no longer serve you, or just feeling stuck without direction or purpose? If you want to make lifestyle changes, but just don't know where to begin. If you want to experience well-being, happiness, joy, and peace and learn how to create this in your life, feel free to call me! I would be honored to help you navigate life and live in a way that is authentic, empowering and transformative.
I draw from Positive Psychology, Eating Psychology, Yoga, Mindfulness, Cognitive Therapy, Coaching and more.
Hi! Are you struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, stress, weight issues, habits that no longer serve you, or just feeling stuck without direction or purpose? If you want to make lifestyle changes, but just don't know where to begin. If you want to experience well-being, happiness, joy, and peace and learn how to create this in your life, feel free to call me! I would be honored to help you navigate life and live in a way that is authentic, empowering and transformative.
(248) 468-1343 View (248) 468-1343
Photo of Kaitlynn Morelli, LPC, NCC, BC-DMT, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaitlynn Morelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-DMT, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073
With a dual master's degree in Professional Counseling and Dance/Movement Therapy-My work is rooted in a holistic, person-centered approach to positive psychology and humanistic theory, with an emphasis on creative expression.
My vision is to help people thrive and rediscover their human potential through the healing of mind, body, and spirit. I seek to empower individuals to succeed in all areas of their life, while unlocking their unique ability to heal themselves. With a holistic approach to person-centered care, I invite the healing process to become a unique therapeutic journey tailored to the needs of each individual, couple, or family. As the proud owner of Inspired Healing: Therapy for Mind, Body & Spirit—I am dedicated to creating a safe environment for our clients, supported by talented clinicians who serve all populations with empathy.
With a dual master's degree in Professional Counseling and Dance/Movement Therapy-My work is rooted in a holistic, person-centered approach to positive psychology and humanistic theory, with an emphasis on creative expression.
My vision is to help people thrive and rediscover their human potential through the healing of mind, body, and spirit. I seek to empower individuals to succeed in all areas of their life, while unlocking their unique ability to heal themselves. With a holistic approach to person-centered care, I invite the healing process to become a unique therapeutic journey tailored to the needs of each individual, couple, or family. As the proud owner of Inspired Healing: Therapy for Mind, Body & Spirit—I am dedicated to creating a safe environment for our clients, supported by talented clinicians who serve all populations with empathy.
(248) 206-3919 View (248) 206-3919
Photo of Morgan Denise LaClear, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Denise LaClear
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48076
I use an approach grounded in positive psychology, emphasizing strengths, trauma-focused techniques, and person-centered care.
Are you someone who identifies as a highly sensitive person but feel misunderstood or unappreciated by those around you? Do past traumas or anxiety often overwhelm you, hindering your ability to live the life you desire? Are you grappling with overpowering mood swings, leaving you feeling uncertain and off balance? Perhaps you struggle with feelings of unworthiness or inadequacy, finding it hard to find a place where you truly belong. Enter Morgan. With a deep understanding of highly sensitive people and anxiety, Morgan actively works to instill confidence and foster well-being in her clients.
I use an approach grounded in positive psychology, emphasizing strengths, trauma-focused techniques, and person-centered care.
Are you someone who identifies as a highly sensitive person but feel misunderstood or unappreciated by those around you? Do past traumas or anxiety often overwhelm you, hindering your ability to live the life you desire? Are you grappling with overpowering mood swings, leaving you feeling uncertain and off balance? Perhaps you struggle with feelings of unworthiness or inadequacy, finding it hard to find a place where you truly belong. Enter Morgan. With a deep understanding of highly sensitive people and anxiety, Morgan actively works to instill confidence and foster well-being in her clients.
(313) 921-6456 View (313) 921-6456
Photo of Pamela Lavis - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Troy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Troy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(248) 560-6337 View (248) 560-6337
Photo of Lisa Michaels, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Michaels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
Using elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), positive psychology, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I strive to hold space with my clients as we explore their inner-emotional landscapes.
Taking the first step on your therapeutic journey can feel overwhelming and scary. My aim as a therapist is to foster a safe space for you to explore your curiosities, recognize your inherent strength, and cultivate resilience so your mental health odyssey doesn't have to feel like a solo trek. Working with individuals, couples, and groups, my work is person-centered and evidence-based. I specialize in self-compassion/self-forgiveness, SUDs recovery, anxiety, depression, and performance-based mental health (including touring).
Using elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), positive psychology, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I strive to hold space with my clients as we explore their inner-emotional landscapes.
Taking the first step on your therapeutic journey can feel overwhelming and scary. My aim as a therapist is to foster a safe space for you to explore your curiosities, recognize your inherent strength, and cultivate resilience so your mental health odyssey doesn't have to feel like a solo trek. Working with individuals, couples, and groups, my work is person-centered and evidence-based. I specialize in self-compassion/self-forgiveness, SUDs recovery, anxiety, depression, and performance-based mental health (including touring).
(248) 617-8921 View (248) 617-8921
Photo of Rebecca Hockridge - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Beverly Hills, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Beverly Hills
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Southfield, MI 48076
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(248) 247-7192 View (248) 247-7192
Photo of Kelly Kellerman - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Royal Oak
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Royal Oak
Master Social Worker
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Kalimah Forbes-Trinidad, MA, LLPC, CTP, Counselor
Kalimah Forbes-Trinidad
Counselor, MA, LLPC, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48076  (Online Only)
As a licensed therapist with a Masters in Clinical Counseling, and a Certified Trauma Professional I like to provide my clients with the opportunity to disclose, process and work through their problems in a nonjudgmentally safe environment; to understand their full potential and their full worth. My approach to counseling is an integrative one, in order to provide clients with a holistic counseling experience.
As a licensed therapist with a Masters in Clinical Counseling, and a Certified Trauma Professional I like to provide my clients with the opportunity to disclose, process and work through their problems in a nonjudgmentally safe environment; to understand their full potential and their full worth. My approach to counseling is an integrative one, in order to provide clients with a holistic counseling experience.
(248) 653-6599 View (248) 653-6599
Photo of Jennifer Gillette, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Gillette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Birmingham, MI 48009
Jennifer Gillette is a Licensed Master Social Worker who is passionate about helping those in physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental distress. She has worked in oncology for over 25 years and works with top-rated health professionals to keep up to date on the latest research. She has extensive experience with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, stress management, PTSD, bipolar disorders, and coping with life transitions. Jennifer assists couples in healing their marriages and families. She also has a Women's Christian Counseling certificate and is open to helping people use their individual spirituality as a way to cope.
Jennifer Gillette is a Licensed Master Social Worker who is passionate about helping those in physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental distress. She has worked in oncology for over 25 years and works with top-rated health professionals to keep up to date on the latest research. She has extensive experience with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma, stress management, PTSD, bipolar disorders, and coping with life transitions. Jennifer assists couples in healing their marriages and families. She also has a Women's Christian Counseling certificate and is open to helping people use their individual spirituality as a way to cope.
(248) 951-9324 View (248) 951-9324
Photo of Savannah Dynkowski, LMSW, ADHD-, CCSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Savannah Dynkowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ADHD-, CCSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, MI 48009
Ready to experience a space where you can truly focus on you? My ideal client is anyone willing to take a chance on themself and be curious, whether it's diving into the past, navigating the present, or envisioning the future. You're someone eager to identify your needs, arm yourself with coping strategies, understand the parameters of your weaknesses, build on your strengths, celebrate your progress, and bring peace and acceptance to your chaos. Together, we can build a relationship grounded in understanding and mutual trust as we strive for growth, progress, and lasting change.
Ready to experience a space where you can truly focus on you? My ideal client is anyone willing to take a chance on themself and be curious, whether it's diving into the past, navigating the present, or envisioning the future. You're someone eager to identify your needs, arm yourself with coping strategies, understand the parameters of your weaknesses, build on your strengths, celebrate your progress, and bring peace and acceptance to your chaos. Together, we can build a relationship grounded in understanding and mutual trust as we strive for growth, progress, and lasting change.
(248) 218-9317 View (248) 218-9317
Photo of Denise Banyai Licensed Psychotherapist + Certified Life Coach, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Denise Banyai Licensed Psychotherapist + Certified Life Coach
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48073
My mission is that I want you to be excited about your life! Naturally, people seeking therapy and life coaching want a desired result. I am a mash up of Positive & Humanistic Psychology, an experienced clinician with a trauma-informed approach. Grounded in openness, honesty, trust, humor and confidentially. My passion is to empower you to recognize that you can become the hero of your own life. You can learn to live life freely and authentically, to thrive in your relationships with self and others, and to experience true healing and growth. Ultimately, the goal is to uncover your passion and perseverance. Website denisebanyai.com
My mission is that I want you to be excited about your life! Naturally, people seeking therapy and life coaching want a desired result. I am a mash up of Positive & Humanistic Psychology, an experienced clinician with a trauma-informed approach. Grounded in openness, honesty, trust, humor and confidentially. My passion is to empower you to recognize that you can become the hero of your own life. You can learn to live life freely and authentically, to thrive in your relationships with self and others, and to experience true healing and growth. Ultimately, the goal is to uncover your passion and perseverance. Website denisebanyai.com
(248) 817-8411 View (248) 817-8411

See more therapy options for Berkley

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.