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EVIDENCE-BASED THERAPIES
Northstar Center emphasizes the use of evidence-based therapies because their effectiveness
is supported by scientific research, clinical trials, and meta-analyses. 

COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (CBT) - CBT was developed and studied by Aaron T. Beck, M.D. in the 1970's. It is an evidence-based intervention that focuses on how thoughts and perceptions influence emotions and behaviors. 

DIALECTICAL BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (DBT) - INFORMED - DBT is an evidence-based intervention developed by Marsha Linehan, PhD, originally developed to treat suicidal ideation and behaviors. Since then, it has research to support its effectiveness in treating other mental health conditions and symptoms including, but not limited to, eating disorders, depression, substance abuse and PTSD.  A manualized, formal DBT program is comprised of 4 components: individual therapy, skills groups, phone coaching and consultation groups for DBT therapists. At Northstar Center, DBT informed approaches are woven into therapy. DBT skills, such as, mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness and emotion regulation are taught in session and skills practice is recommended outside of session.

INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS (IFS) - IFS was developed by Richard Schwartz, a family therapist. Through his work as a therapist, he found that, much like a family system, the mind or psyche is comprised of different "parts" that work together.  IFS is an evidence-based intervention that promotes psychological healing by enabling the various parts to work together in more healthy and effective ways. 

MINDFULNESS-BASED STRESS REDUCTION (MBSR) - MBSR is an 8 week mindfulness training program developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn in the 1970's. Over the many years of his research he discovered that consistent mindfulness practice reduces physical and psychological distress, i.e. decreases anxiety and depression, among other conditions. 

EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION AND REPROCESSING (EMDR) THERAPY - EMDR was developed in 1987 by Francine Shapiro. This evidence-based approach uses bilateral sensory stimulation to help complete the processing of disturbing material from the past that intrude on present day functioning. 

THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES BASED IN SCIENCE

COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (CBT)

DIALECTICAL BEHAVIORAL THERAPY - INFORMED (DBT-INFORMED)

EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION AND REPROCESSING (EMDR) THERAPY

INTERNAL FAMILY SYSTEMS (IFS)

MINDFULNESS-BASED STRESS REDUCTION (MBSR)

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