Top Down & Cognitive Therapies

Top Down Therapy

All of our psychotherapists at HeartMind Resiliency combine both what are referred to as Top-down and Bottom-up psychotherapy approaches. The majority of therapists spent graduate school receiving training in Top Down models of Cognitive therapies that traditionally focus exclusively on cognitions, thoughts and beliefs. Our therapists also are trained in and receive continuing education in Somatic and other Experiential therapies that focus more on Bottom-Up processing (from the body to the brain) which are based on a psychobiological understanding of mental health.

We are unique in that our therapists are trained to integrate both the Mind and the Body in our work with our clients by weaving together top-down cognitively-based models with bottom-up somatically oriented approaches. This allows for a holistic and comprehensive way of supporting a person’s mind, body and spirit.

Depending on your unique needs and desires, your therapist might integrate one or more of these Top-Down approaches into your treatment:

Top-Down Therapy at HeartMind Resiliency is a holistic approach to healing that recognizes the intricate connection between mind and body. This therapeutic modality emphasizes the importance of engaging the cognitive and emotional aspects of our experience to promote lasting emotional well-being and resilience.

In Top-Down Therapy, our skilled therapists work closely with you to explore the thoughts, beliefs, and emotions that may be contributing to your emotional challenges. We understand that unresolved issues and negative thought patterns can impact your mental health and overall well-being. Through a collaborative and compassionate approach, we help you gain insight into these patterns and develop strategies to reframe and transform them.

Top-Down Therapy provides you with tools to better understand and manage your emotions, reduce stress, and improve your overall quality of life. Our therapists create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your unique experiences and challenges. By working together to address both the cognitive and emotional aspects of your well-being, we empower you to build emotional resilience and find a deeper sense of balance and vitality.

At HeartMind Resiliency, our commitment is to guide you on a path toward greater emotional well-being and resilience. Top-Down Therapy offers an opportunity to uncover the potential for transformation within yourself, allowing you to lead a more fulfilling and empowered life. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or other emotional difficulties, we are here to support you on your journey towards lasting healing and growth.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

focuses on the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It aims to help you identify and shift distorted thought patterns and replace them with more realistic and life-enhancing ones. Your therapist might use various strategies to challenge and reframe your thoughts that, in turn, will support you to shift behaviors and emotional states so that you can feel more in control of your day-to-day life, and support the overwhelm of anxiety, depression and phobias.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

combines elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy with concepts of mindfulness and acceptance. Some people know it as the therapy that was created to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder. However, it is now an evidenced-based modality for many psychological concerns, including emotional dysregulation, childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, self-destructive behaviors, such as self-harm or substance use. DBT skills will help you to regulate emotions, tolerate distress, develop interpersonal skills, and build mindfulness practices by emphasizing acceptance and validation, alongside developing coping strategies.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

is another evidence-based therapy that helps individuals accept their thoughts and emotions without judgment while actively engaging in behaviors that align with their values. With ACT, your therapist will guide you with mindfulness practices and experiential exercises to support your movement towards your goals while helping you to decrease avoidance of challenges.

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