Functional therapy
Functional Therapy is an approach in psychotherapy aimed at helping an individual develop adaptive and effective behavior patterns that align with their personal goals, values, and life circumstances. The core idea of this approach is the understanding that mental health largely depends on an individual’s ability to function effectively in various areas of life, such as work, relationships, emotional well-being, and physical health.
The goal of functional therapy is not only to overcome symptoms but also to improve the overall quality of life. It often includes:
Assessment of functional capabilities — analyzing behavior and its impact on achieving goals.
Development of new skills — learning effective strategies for problem-solving, emotional regulation, and maintaining relationships.
Implementation of changes — gradual adaptation to new circumstances and improving life quality through specific practical steps.
This approach can be used both independently and in combination with other therapeutic methods, depending on the client’s needs.
Törneke, N. (2023). Using Functional Analysis in Psychotherapy. Guilford Press.
Kanter, J. W., Tsai, M., Holman, G. I., & Koerner, K. (2017). A comprehensive review of research on Functional Analytic Psychotherapy. International Journal of Behavioral Consultation and Therapy, 12(1), 8–19.
Kanter, J. W., Tsai, M., & Kohlenberg, R. J. (2008). Culture-sensitive functional analytic psychotherapy: Enhancing the therapy relationship with awareness, courage, and love. Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice, 15(1), 62–66.