EMDR, CBT, IFS, ACT: What Do These Therapy Acronyms Actually Mean?
Mental health websites often list therapy types using abbreviations that aren’t always easy to understand. At the Vancouver Therapy Collective (VTC), we aim to make the therapeutic process as clear as possible—including the kinds of approaches our practicum student therapists are trained in.
Below is a brief overview of some of the most common therapy modalities used in our practice: EMDR, CBT, IFS, and ACT. Each of these approaches is grounded in different psychological frameworks and may be useful depending on the client’s needs and goals.
CBT – Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a structured, short-term form of therapy that focuses on identifying and modifying unhelpful thought patterns and behaviours. It is widely used for conditions such as anxiety, depression, and stress-related issues.
CBT is based on the idea that thoughts, emotions, and behaviours are interconnected. For example, someone experiencing chronic self-doubt may work on identifying the specific beliefs contributing to those feelings and test out alternative ways of thinking and responding.
EMDR – Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
EMDR is a trauma-focused therapy originally developed to help individuals process distressing memories. It involves recalling emotionally intense experiences while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping.
The goal is to reduce the emotional charge associated with traumatic memories and allow clients to integrate those experiences in a more adaptive way. EMDR has been extensively studied for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but it may also be applied to other issues involving trauma or negative life events.
IFS – Internal Family Systems
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a therapeutic approach that views the mind as made up of different internal “parts,” each with its own role and perspective. These parts can include protective aspects, vulnerable parts, or internal critics.
IFS therapy focuses on helping clients understand and work with these internal dynamics in a way that increases internal coherence and self-leadership. The method is often used in work with complex trauma, emotional regulation difficulties, and identity-related challenges.
ACT – Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a behavioural approach that emphasizes psychological flexibility. It encourages clients to accept unpleasant emotions and thoughts rather than trying to eliminate them, while also taking action aligned with personal values.
ACT incorporates mindfulness strategies and behavioural commitment techniques. It is commonly used for anxiety, depression, OCD, and stress-related issues.
How We Apply These Approaches at the Vancouver Therapy Collective
Each practicum therapist at the Vancouver Therapy Collective brings their own training background as well as their own personal experiences. The choice of therapy approach is tailored to the individual client and often involves a combination of modalities. Clients are informed of these approaches during the free intake and initial consultation process.
More Information
Vancouver Therapy Collective offers sliding-scale therapy sessions provided by advanced graduate-level students under clinical supervision. Session types, availability, and approaches vary depending on the therapist while all new clients receive a first free 15 minute consultation to better understand their needs and how VTC can help!
