National Counselor Exam (NCE)

Which psychological approach primarily focuses on emotional healing through the exploration of thoughts and feelings?

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

2. Psychoanalytic Therapy

3. Humanistic Therapy

4. Behavioral Therapy

The correct answer is: Psychoanalytic Therapy

Psychoanalytic Therapy is rooted in exploring the unconscious mind, delving into thoughts, feelings, and unresolved issues that often stem from childhood experiences. This therapeutic approach emphasizes emotional healing through insight and understanding of deep-seated psychological conflicts. The therapist encourages clients to express their thoughts freely, allowing for the exploration of suppressed emotions and internal struggles that contribute to their current psychological state. By bringing these unconscious processes to light, individuals can work through their feelings, leading to emotional healing and personal growth. This focus on understanding complex emotional patterns and relationships makes it distinctive among other therapeutic approaches. While Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) emphasizes changing negative thought patterns and behaviors and Humanistic Therapy focuses on individual potential and self-actualization, psychoanalytic therapy is unique in its depth-oriented exploration of the psyche and the importance of the therapeutic relationship for fostering insight and emotional healing. Behavioral Therapy, on the other hand, concentrates primarily on modifying observable behaviors rather than exploring underlying thoughts and feelings.