Dr Anthony Arcuri uses evidence-based approaches to the treatment of psychological difficulties. Anthony’s approach to psychotherapy is primarily psychodynamic, supplemented by systemic therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and specialist substance use treatment, where appropriate.

In providing psychological services, Anthony abides by the Australian Psychological Society Code of Ethics and Charter for Clients. Please visit the APS website for further details.

What is Psychodynamic therapy?

Psychodynamic therapy is a form of treatment aimed both at relieving symptoms and at achieving meaningful, long-lasting change. The process of therapy varies depending on the current need of the individual, but it generally entails:

1. •Identifying recurring themes and patterns that have painful outcomes
   

2. •Exploring and more fully articulating one’s range of emotional states
   

3. •Carefully exploring attempts to avoid distressing thoughts and feelings
   

4. •Understanding how past experiences impact on present-day difficulties
   

5. •Exploring problematic interpersonal relationship patterns
   

6. •Understanding the therapy relationship to better understand oneself
   

As emotions, thoughts and behaviours become better understood, the individual develops the ability, in moments of distress or potential distress, to observe and have conscious input into his or her responses, rather than reacting in previously unhelpful ways.

Therefore, not only does psychodynamic therapy assist in the relief of symptoms, it encourages the individual to strengthen and build upon his or her own internal resources. This allows for meaningful, long-lasting change.

Psychodynamic therapy has a rich history and has continued to develop our understanding of human psychology over the last 130 years. In more recent years, scientific research has shown psychodynamic therapy to be a highly effective approach to psychological treatment, with lasting benefits. Further information is available in this article published by the American Psychological Association.

*List adapted from Shedler (2010)

What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)?

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a form of treatment aimed at reducing symptoms of psychological and emotional distress caused by unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours. CBT encourages individuals to take note of their patterns of thinking, feeling and acting, and then to begin to develop new and more adaptive ways of thinking and behaving aligned with their particular goals.

CBT has demonstrated effectiveness as a psychological treatment for a range of difficulties, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, substance use disorders, and psychotic disorders.

What is Systemic Therapy?

Systemic therapy is a form of treatment that aims to understand and respond to the individual as a part of his or her relational system, be it a romantic relationship, a family, a workplace or a community.

Systemic therapy seeks to understand how individuals have developed their patterns of relating by understanding their experiences of their families-of-origin. Drawing from this understanding, individuals are encouraged to attempt suggestions for alternative ways of relating to situations in which they currently are experiencing difficulty.

Systemic therapy has been shown to be an effective approach to the treatment of relationship difficulties, including in couples and families, with one or more members present in the therapy.

If you would like to learn more or to arrange an appointment, you are welcome to contact Anthony directly.