Positive Psychology Therapists in Charlotte, NC

Photo of Sharon Denise Buckner, LCMHC
Sharon Denise Buckner
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226  (Online Only)
By using cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal approaches, and positive psychology methods, she's able to uniquely help individuals experience personal growth in a safe and encouraging therapeutic space.
SD Buckner is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with over 11 years of experience helping clients of all ages who are suffering from the effects of ADHD, anger management issues, behavioral issues, poor coping skills, and low self-esteem.
By using cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal approaches, and positive psychology methods, she's able to uniquely help individuals experience personal growth in a safe and encouraging therapeutic space.
SD Buckner is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) with over 11 years of experience helping clients of all ages who are suffering from the effects of ADHD, anger management issues, behavioral issues, poor coping skills, and low self-esteem.
(704) 327-3029 View (704) 327-3029
Photo of Emma Kate Reif, PhD, Psychologist
Emma Kate Reif
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210
Sometimes life throws us lemons, and prioritizing our self-care and mental health helps us cope! I enjoy supporting others through individual therapy, as well as parent coaching. For individual therapy I work with both male and female clients, ages 12 and older. My therapeutic approach incorporates Positive Psychology (e.g., compassion, gratitude, mindfulness, and resilience to stress), as well as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other forms of treatment.
Sometimes life throws us lemons, and prioritizing our self-care and mental health helps us cope! I enjoy supporting others through individual therapy, as well as parent coaching. For individual therapy I work with both male and female clients, ages 12 and older. My therapeutic approach incorporates Positive Psychology (e.g., compassion, gratitude, mindfulness, and resilience to stress), as well as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other forms of treatment.
(704) 946-8854 View (704) 946-8854
Photo of Mollie Sandler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mollie Sandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior therapy, Positive Psychology, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness techniques in my approach, making it individualized to your needs.
As a clinician, my purpose is to provide a safe place that addresses struggles including but not limited to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress management, conflict resolution, and relationships. My office is a non-judgmental and trusting space for you to process your emotions and further develop skills that are designed to help you move towards your therapeutic goals. I believe that emotional and personal growth is different for everyone. My services will be tailored to meet you where you are so we can work together to achieve the growth and change you want in your life.
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior therapy, Positive Psychology, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, and mindfulness techniques in my approach, making it individualized to your needs.
As a clinician, my purpose is to provide a safe place that addresses struggles including but not limited to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress management, conflict resolution, and relationships. My office is a non-judgmental and trusting space for you to process your emotions and further develop skills that are designed to help you move towards your therapeutic goals. I believe that emotional and personal growth is different for everyone. My services will be tailored to meet you where you are so we can work together to achieve the growth and change you want in your life.
(980) 372-6925 View (980) 372-6925
Photo of Siddiqah Taqwah Musa-Cooper, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Siddiqah Taqwah Musa-Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212  (Online Only)
I guide clients through their process with using positive psychology to strengthen you.
As a MFT-I, I assist couples, families, and individuals with their mental health needs. My ideal model is Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) which allows you to be the expert in your situation and makes room for you to state your own outcome(s); which strengthens your power to know that you are able to overcome and succeed; no matter the situation at hand.
I guide clients through their process with using positive psychology to strengthen you.
As a MFT-I, I assist couples, families, and individuals with their mental health needs. My ideal model is Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) which allows you to be the expert in your situation and makes room for you to state your own outcome(s); which strengthens your power to know that you are able to overcome and succeed; no matter the situation at hand.
(980) 998-2177 View (980) 998-2177
Photo of Emani J Mills, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emani J Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28208  (Online Only)
Framing her approach using mindfulness based CBT and positive psychology, she offers a warm and open setting where engaging, reflective therapeutic conversations can flow easily and without judgement.
Emani Mills is a licensed clinical social worker providing counseling to adolescents and adults. She completed her Master of Social Work at the University of Georgia and have been licensed since 2018. Her services are available to those residing in North Carolina via tele-health providing treatment for depression, anxiety, stress, and adjustment disorders. She enjoys what she does and is honored to be a part of someone's healing journey.
Framing her approach using mindfulness based CBT and positive psychology, she offers a warm and open setting where engaging, reflective therapeutic conversations can flow easily and without judgement.
Emani Mills is a licensed clinical social worker providing counseling to adolescents and adults. She completed her Master of Social Work at the University of Georgia and have been licensed since 2018. Her services are available to those residing in North Carolina via tele-health providing treatment for depression, anxiety, stress, and adjustment disorders. She enjoys what she does and is honored to be a part of someone's healing journey.
(704) 850-6079 View (704) 850-6079
Photo of Lauren Whittle, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Whittle
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203
Therapy for adolescents & adults drawing from an integrative framework that incorporates elements of positive psychology and insight-oriented therapy in conjunction with CBT/DBT.
Dr. Whittle adopts a relational and engaging therapeutic style that aims to help clients deepen their self-understanding and develop new modes of thinking, feeling, and acting that allow for living a more connected and fulfilling life.
Therapy for adolescents & adults drawing from an integrative framework that incorporates elements of positive psychology and insight-oriented therapy in conjunction with CBT/DBT.
Dr. Whittle adopts a relational and engaging therapeutic style that aims to help clients deepen their self-understanding and develop new modes of thinking, feeling, and acting that allow for living a more connected and fulfilling life.
(980) 294-1562 View (980) 294-1562
Photo of Brittney Long, LCMHCA, Counselor
Brittney Long
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
Life can be challenging at times, but I believe with the right tools and a helpful listener we can make it a little easier. I’m passionate about helping clients build resilience and quiet those negative thoughts that make them doubt their potential. I enjoy motivating my clients to be the best version of themselves through positive psychology and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Once a client can rationalize through their negative thoughts, they can then change their behavior.
Life can be challenging at times, but I believe with the right tools and a helpful listener we can make it a little easier. I’m passionate about helping clients build resilience and quiet those negative thoughts that make them doubt their potential. I enjoy motivating my clients to be the best version of themselves through positive psychology and cognitive-behavioral therapy. Once a client can rationalize through their negative thoughts, they can then change their behavior.
(704) 389-5977 View (704) 389-5977
Photo of Robin Stitt - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Charlotte, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Charlotte
Counselor
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
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.
(704) 703-3404 View (704) 703-3404
Photo of Molly McDonnell - Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Charlotte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Charlotte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28209
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.
(704) 459-3783 View (704) 459-3783
Photo of Amber Peel, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber Peel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
I offer various evidenced-based practices, such as CBT, DBT, positive psychology, etc.
I can understand how intimidating therapy can seem. To be vulnerable with someone who does not share a personal relationship with you can seem challenging and for some, scary. If you are someone who feels like they are slightly ready to take that step in healing their past traumas, present challenges, or preparing for their future, I can be there to help you along the way. I currently work with teens, adults, and families where I focus on building a strong rapport with each client that I see. My goal as your therapist is to guide you on your journey of healing and to help bring light and comfort in those hard times.
I offer various evidenced-based practices, such as CBT, DBT, positive psychology, etc.
I can understand how intimidating therapy can seem. To be vulnerable with someone who does not share a personal relationship with you can seem challenging and for some, scary. If you are someone who feels like they are slightly ready to take that step in healing their past traumas, present challenges, or preparing for their future, I can be there to help you along the way. I currently work with teens, adults, and families where I focus on building a strong rapport with each client that I see. My goal as your therapist is to guide you on your journey of healing and to help bring light and comfort in those hard times.
(980) 737-7661 View (980) 737-7661
Photo of Patricia Ann Stewart, LCMHC, LPCC
Patricia Ann Stewart
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
Theoretical concepts of Humanistic, Interpersonal, CBT, Contemplative and Positive Psychology are applied.
Mishaps, uncontrollable circumstances, relationships, personal experiences, all contribute to our development. At any age or stage in life, stunted growth and development may occur. Finding the courage and trust to explore our inner selves is never easy. Finding the right person to help you through your journey can be equally challenging. If unconditional, nonjudgemental support is what you seek to help with your unique life challenges, I bring my best to help you. My therapeutic practice provides a safe, compassionate, fully supported, experience.
Theoretical concepts of Humanistic, Interpersonal, CBT, Contemplative and Positive Psychology are applied.
Mishaps, uncontrollable circumstances, relationships, personal experiences, all contribute to our development. At any age or stage in life, stunted growth and development may occur. Finding the courage and trust to explore our inner selves is never easy. Finding the right person to help you through your journey can be equally challenging. If unconditional, nonjudgemental support is what you seek to help with your unique life challenges, I bring my best to help you. My therapeutic practice provides a safe, compassionate, fully supported, experience.
(704) 741-1979 View (704) 741-1979
Photo of Kelli Mehalic, MA, NCC, LCMHC, Counselor
Kelli Mehalic
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
I use an integrative approach to therapy, incorporating evidence based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused, Positive Psychology, Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and mindfulness.
My approach to counseling is simple: You can change. You can change your mind, your heart and the direction of your life. As a fervent life-long seeker of meaning and understanding of the human experience, I commit a fearless attitude and tireless ethic to charting your path toward greater happiness, purpose and peace. My clients include adolescents and adults navigating mood disorders, low self-esteem, stress, challenging life changes, faith transitions and religious trauma. I have extensive experience with Borderline Personality Disorder and offer treatment and hope through a combination of modalities including DBT skills.
I use an integrative approach to therapy, incorporating evidence based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused, Positive Psychology, Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and mindfulness.
My approach to counseling is simple: You can change. You can change your mind, your heart and the direction of your life. As a fervent life-long seeker of meaning and understanding of the human experience, I commit a fearless attitude and tireless ethic to charting your path toward greater happiness, purpose and peace. My clients include adolescents and adults navigating mood disorders, low self-esteem, stress, challenging life changes, faith transitions and religious trauma. I have extensive experience with Borderline Personality Disorder and offer treatment and hope through a combination of modalities including DBT skills.
(704) 286-1849 View (704) 286-1849
Photo of Dr. Erin B. Patterson, PsyD, LCMHCS, NCC
Dr. Erin B. Patterson
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, PsyD, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28214
I utilize a variety of approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Positive Psychology and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) informed trauma treatment.
I strive to provide a relaxed environment, full of compassion, to make you feel more comfortable opening up about what's bothering you. I take a holistic approach to healing and advocate for natural methods/treatments where possible. My goal is to help you reach your goals quickly so that you can get back to the best version of yourself. There are many ways to accomplish this and we will work together to find the best path for you.
I utilize a variety of approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Positive Psychology and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) informed trauma treatment.
I strive to provide a relaxed environment, full of compassion, to make you feel more comfortable opening up about what's bothering you. I take a holistic approach to healing and advocate for natural methods/treatments where possible. My goal is to help you reach your goals quickly so that you can get back to the best version of yourself. There are many ways to accomplish this and we will work together to find the best path for you.
(704) 288-1530 View (704) 288-1530
Photo of Buffy Wimmer, MACC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Buffy Wimmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACC, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28278
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for your interest in discovering the best therapist for your particular needs. Please take a few minutes and read through my information or review my website for more information. I received my undergraduate degree from UNC- Chapel Hill and my Masters in Christian Counseling from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. I have worked as a pastoral counselor at a large church in Charlotte for almost 10 years and am currently in private practice. I have been married almost 44 years and have 6 grandchildren. Please consider calling for an appointment..I received formal training in :Positive Psychology,EMDR andBrainspotting ,
Thank you for your interest in discovering the best therapist for your particular needs. Please take a few minutes and read through my information or review my website for more information. I received my undergraduate degree from UNC- Chapel Hill and my Masters in Christian Counseling from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. I have worked as a pastoral counselor at a large church in Charlotte for almost 10 years and am currently in private practice. I have been married almost 44 years and have 6 grandchildren. Please consider calling for an appointment..I received formal training in :Positive Psychology,EMDR andBrainspotting ,
(980) 250-2438 View (980) 250-2438
Photo of Chrissy Nieves - The Harbor Behavioral Health Center, LCSW, LCAS, CAADC, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Harbor Behavioral Health Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CAADC, MA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201
Mostly inclusive of Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, CBT/DBT, and Humanistic Therapy.
Life is tough. No one should have to experience it alone. I believe it's an honor to help clients work through their life situations. Substance use, Depression, anxiety, trauma, feelings of hopelessness, adoption, foster care, and adjustment issues are just some of the issues that I pride myself on helping clients navigate. Healing is not linear and I believe in providing a therapeutic environment that provides a supportive space for whatever your healing and wellness looks like.
Mostly inclusive of Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, CBT/DBT, and Humanistic Therapy.
Life is tough. No one should have to experience it alone. I believe it's an honor to help clients work through their life situations. Substance use, Depression, anxiety, trauma, feelings of hopelessness, adoption, foster care, and adjustment issues are just some of the issues that I pride myself on helping clients navigate. Healing is not linear and I believe in providing a therapeutic environment that provides a supportive space for whatever your healing and wellness looks like.
(757) 906-4570 View (757) 906-4570
Photo of Kimberly D Adams - Kim Adams Counseling, PLLC, MA, LCMHCQS, NCC
Kim Adams Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCQS, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Focusing on your strengths through the lens of positive psychology, I utilize elements of CBT, DBT, solution-focused and person-centered therapy.
Life can feel overwhelming for a number of reasons. You may feel that it is out of control and you are not functioning at your optimal state. Stress from school, work, and life transitions can sometimes leave you feeling "stuck" or burned-out. Relationships are complex. Grief and loss can feel unbearable. Depression and anxiety are often road blocks to success. Your feelings are valid. Your experience is real, and should be handled with respect and care. Counseling is a unique expereince where you will be provided with non-judgemental, uncondtional positive regard and a safe place and time dedicated just to your wellbeing.
Focusing on your strengths through the lens of positive psychology, I utilize elements of CBT, DBT, solution-focused and person-centered therapy.
Life can feel overwhelming for a number of reasons. You may feel that it is out of control and you are not functioning at your optimal state. Stress from school, work, and life transitions can sometimes leave you feeling "stuck" or burned-out. Relationships are complex. Grief and loss can feel unbearable. Depression and anxiety are often road blocks to success. Your feelings are valid. Your experience is real, and should be handled with respect and care. Counseling is a unique expereince where you will be provided with non-judgemental, uncondtional positive regard and a safe place and time dedicated just to your wellbeing.
(704) 686-8320 View (704) 686-8320
Photo of Dr. Lisabeth Medlock Life By Design Coaching, PhD, BCC, CDCS
Dr. Lisabeth Medlock Life By Design Coaching
PhD, BCC, CDCS
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201  (Online Only)
Now accepting new clients. My goal, as a coach, is to help you move from where you are to where you want to be to get unstuck and change perceptions, habits and behaviors to move forward. Rooted in positive psychology, I use a strengths based approach to help you achieve goals, no matter what challenges you face. If you are are asking questions...Why am I not my best self or happy in my life? Why can't I seem to reach my goals? Why can't I figure out what I want?...... coaching can begin a path to change. I specialize in career and life transitions for neurodiverse (e.g., ADHD) clients.
Now accepting new clients. My goal, as a coach, is to help you move from where you are to where you want to be to get unstuck and change perceptions, habits and behaviors to move forward. Rooted in positive psychology, I use a strengths based approach to help you achieve goals, no matter what challenges you face. If you are are asking questions...Why am I not my best self or happy in my life? Why can't I seem to reach my goals? Why can't I figure out what I want?...... coaching can begin a path to change. I specialize in career and life transitions for neurodiverse (e.g., ADHD) clients.
(864) 803-3490 View (864) 803-3490
Photo of Karen Arrington, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Karen Arrington
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
The truth is we all deserve to live life in a mentally healthy space and I'm here to provide you with the support and resources that will help you start your transformational journey to healing. Life is ever-changing, overwhelming, and challenging at times, but through therapy, you can develop the right tools to improve your mental wellness. We all experience seasons where it feels impossible to manage, but you're not alone. The challenges life throws at us can leave us feeling hurt, disappointed, lost, fearful and unable to see a way through. Wherever you are, I will meet you there.
The truth is we all deserve to live life in a mentally healthy space and I'm here to provide you with the support and resources that will help you start your transformational journey to healing. Life is ever-changing, overwhelming, and challenging at times, but through therapy, you can develop the right tools to improve your mental wellness. We all experience seasons where it feels impossible to manage, but you're not alone. The challenges life throws at us can leave us feeling hurt, disappointed, lost, fearful and unable to see a way through. Wherever you are, I will meet you there.
(704) 237-6695 View (704) 237-6695
Photo of Amy S Royal, LCSWA, CDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy S Royal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, CDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28270
Hello and welcome! I am one of the therapists at Next Chapter Counseling PLLC (visit our website via the link). I specialize in working with older adults, family caregivers, and mid-to older adults (primarily 50+) who are experiencing the stressors and transitions of middle age and beyond. This can include grief, loss, depression, anxiety, career changes, adjusting to new situations or environments, redefining purpose, navigating "empty nesting" or aging, dealing with difficult adult children, coping with chronic illness, caregiving responsibilities, phase of life changes, and more.
Hello and welcome! I am one of the therapists at Next Chapter Counseling PLLC (visit our website via the link). I specialize in working with older adults, family caregivers, and mid-to older adults (primarily 50+) who are experiencing the stressors and transitions of middle age and beyond. This can include grief, loss, depression, anxiety, career changes, adjusting to new situations or environments, redefining purpose, navigating "empty nesting" or aging, dealing with difficult adult children, coping with chronic illness, caregiving responsibilities, phase of life changes, and more.
(980) 291-4598 View (980) 291-4598
Photo of Linda Ferguson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Ferguson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28269
Life is a journey that can consist of ups and downs, twists and turns, and sometimes even forks in the middle of the road. There is no crystal ball to predict the right path to travel to reach one's destination, but one can learn how to avoid pitfalls and arrive at one's destination safely. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker of 15 years, I have assisted children, adolescents, and adults with mental health and substance use disorders in acquiring new strategies to be successful within the military services, educational field, hospital, penal system, family violence, and HIV/AIDS non-profit.
Life is a journey that can consist of ups and downs, twists and turns, and sometimes even forks in the middle of the road. There is no crystal ball to predict the right path to travel to reach one's destination, but one can learn how to avoid pitfalls and arrive at one's destination safely. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker of 15 years, I have assisted children, adolescents, and adults with mental health and substance use disorders in acquiring new strategies to be successful within the military services, educational field, hospital, penal system, family violence, and HIV/AIDS non-profit.
(980) 294-6989 View (980) 294-6989
1
...
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.