Clients often find it unclear what variety of tools professionals might have and what each is for. The development of various psychological approaches is the result of very complex processes. Scientific, philosophical, and cultural influences are combined factors – it’s entirely natural that different worldviews and the societal, political, and scientific contexts of the time steered thinkers of that era in various directions.

The analytical approach, psychoanalysis, and psychodynamic therapy are linked to Freud and trace back to the late 1800s. This method deals with unconscious conflicts (e.g., repressed desires and traumas), with the therapist's aim being to uncover these unconscious contents so that processing can begin by bringing them to awareness. In funny images or movies, we can classically see the scene where a client talks about their emotions while lying on a couch – this is typically a tool of psychoanalysis, where a client might meet their psychologist weekly or even twice a week. It's a long-term process, potentially lasting years, but the application of its philosophy is also conceivable within a shorter timeframe, in which case we should look for brief dynamic therapy. It is wise to consider this theoretical and methodological framework for deeply rooted emotional and mental problems, such as repressed traumas, conflicts stemming from childhood experiences, and unconscious emotional tensions. It is particularly effective in dealing with long-term psychological difficulties and internal conflicts, such as anxiety disorders, depression, or relationship issues.

 Gestalt therapy emphasizes living in the present moment and increasing awareness. It examines the whole person, including emotional, physical, and behavioral aspects. It is suitable for handling difficulties related to living in the here and now, repressed emotions, self-expression problems, relationship conflicts, and anxiety. Therapeutic exercises that promote living in the here and now help the client recognize and express repressed emotions. During therapy, there is a strong focus on personal responsibility and self-expression. It helps those who struggle with processing emotional challenges in the present.

The essence of Jungian therapy is that by analyzing symbols, dreams, and archetypes, as well as engaging in active imagination, an individual can bring harmony between the conscious and unconscious parts of their personality, thus achieving balance with their self and the world. Jung's theories can be especially useful for those grappling with the meaning of life, identity, and symbolic meanings, and for those seeking a deeper self-knowledge journey, including symbolic and spiritual dimensions.

Existential therapy deals with fundamental questions of life, such as freedom, life's meaning, death, loneliness, and responsibility. The therapist aids the individual in confronting these fundamental questions and understanding their personal values and goals. The aim is self-realization and achieving an authentic life by making conscious decisions in line with one's own values, and accepting the inevitable uncertainties of life. It is recommended for those struggling with deep philosophical or existential questions (identity crises, fear of death, dilemmas about freedom and responsibility, existential crises, loneliness), and wish to find meaning or purpose in their lives.

The goal of humanistic therapy is to foster self-realization and personal growth, and to unfold the individual's inner resources and potential. It focuses on human potential and self-realization, emphasizing the individual's natural tendency towards development and growth. It highlights positive qualities and internal resources, and stresses the importance of current experiences and feelings. It is recommended for those striving for personal growth, self-realization, and self-acceptance, and who wish to explore their inner resources.

 Person-centered therapy is excellent for deepening self-awareness, and improving self-confidence, low self-esteem, and self-worth. The process involves discovering and unfolding the individual's own inner resources and capabilities, where unconditional acceptance of the client is a fundamental component of therapy. The therapist provides unconditional positive regard, empathy, and congruence to the client, not directing the process, but supporting the client's own developmental path.

Today, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) garners significant attention from clients. The central thesis of CBT is that thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are closely connected. Negative or distorted thoughts lead to poor well-being and harmful behaviors. The goal of the therapy is to identify and change these negative thoughts and faulty thinking patterns. Thus, emotions and behavior can also improve. CBT is one of the most widely used therapeutic methods and has proven extremely effective in treating numerous psychological issues – perhaps this is why it is so popular: anxiety disorders (panic disorder, phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety); depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD); eating disorders; addictions. It can also be useful in marital and relational problems, as it helps identify negative communication patterns and develop new, more effective coping strategies. CBT is a structured, goal-oriented process that can provide a quick solution in the short term. It is comfortable for those who appreciate progressing in a concrete system. The client actively participates in the process, and the work doesn’t stop at the therapy room – homework is also common.

 Mindfulness roots in Eastern spiritual practices, especially Buddhism. Mindfulness is the practice of present moment awareness, which means paying attention to the present without judgment. Mindfulness-based therapies use this technique to better understand and manage emotions and thoughts. Its popularity has particularly increased as the fast pace and stressful lifestyle of the modern world increasingly necessitated new methods for stress management. Mindfulness-based therapies are suitable for treating anxiety, stress, recurrent depression, chronic pain, attention deficits, and impulse control disorders. Practicing mindfulness helps experience the moment without being overly immersed in negative thoughts or feelings. It is recommended for those experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression who want to learn how to be present consciously without judging their feelings.

 Naturally, alongside the larger frameworks of thought, new tools are continuously developing to target mental illnesses more effectively:

• Somatic therapies focus on bodily sensations and responses, particularly in trauma situations, and aid emotional processing by strengthening the connection between body and mind.

• EMDR is a trauma-focused method that uses eye movements to reprocess and reduce traumatic memories.

• CPT (Cognitive Processing Therapy) is used specifically for PTSD treatment, helping clients cognitively process and reframe traumatic experiences.

• MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy) combines mindfulness practices with cognitive therapy, particularly used for preventing and treating recurrent depression.

• ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) emphasizes acceptance and psychological flexibility, helping clients accept their difficult feelings while pursuing value-based goals.

Perhaps we could say that the range of various therapeutic methodologies is expanding day by day, which is good news for those who want to focus on improving their mental well-being and solving their health problems. Remember, the fundamental base for progress is always a good therapeutic relationship. If this exists, then these exciting methodologies and frameworks can exert their positive effects during the collaborative work.