What Makes Therapy Healing? with Dr. Shoaib Memon

In this podcast, I discuss my views on what psychotherapy is and how it works. For the sake of this discussion, I use the terms "therapy" and "psychotherapy" interchangeably. To begin, I understand most problems and symptoms that people experience as being "ABC problems," meaning issues related to Affect, Behavior, and Cognition—or more simply, how we Feel, Act, and Think. While biological factors are also at play, much of how we feel, act, and think is learned and can be relearned or modified through psychotherapy. If I were to describe psychotherapy in one word, it would be "learning."

After establishing this framework, I explore some of the most important components needed for successful therapy. The single most crucial factor is the therapeutic alliance, which I break down in detail during the podcast. Additionally, I discuss the "common factors" present across therapies, regardless of the therapist's theoretical orientation.

Whether you seek treatment from a psychiatrist or another mental health professional, it is beneficial to be familiar with these concepts as you begin therapy. The principles mentioned apply to a wide range of treatments, including those for depression, anxiety, addiction, sobriety, and therapy for navigating common life transitions.

Here is the link and an outline of the podcast episode

(0:57) - Dr. Shoaib Memon Introduction

(5:58) - How Can We Define Psychotherapy?

(8:51) - What Mechanisms & Principles Underlie Psychotherapy?

(13:52) - Advice for Individuals Seeking Psychotherapy

(18:17) - Navigating Medication & Therapy

(25:14) -  Addressing Symptoms & Moving Towards Long-Term Change

(31:51) - What to Expect When First Starting Psychotherapy 

(38:03) - Personal Milestones & Developments

(42:40) - Dr. Shoaib’s Takeaway