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CBT, DBT, IPT, EMDR, ACT, psychodynamic, and beyond — matching therapy to patient needs
Psychotherapy encompasses a diverse range of evidence-based treatments, each with specific mechanisms of action, indications, and evidence bases. No single therapy is universally superior — the best approach depends on diagnosis, severity, patient preference, and therapeutic alliance. Dr. Ruja's clinic draws from multiple modalities: cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) for emotion dysregulation, interpersonal therapy (IPT) for relationship-focused presentations, EMDR for trauma, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) for experiential avoidance. The clinic emphasizes measurement-based care and transparent discussion of what each therapy offers.
Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center
Authored and reviewed by Dr. Ruja Shrestha (MBBS, MD (Psychiatry), NMC 19766). Evidence-based, no fabricated outcomes.
Psychotherapy encompasses a diverse range of evidence-based treatments, each with specific mechanisms of action, indications, and evidence bases. No single therapy is universally superior — the best approach depends on diagnosis, severity, patient preference, and therapeutic alliance. Dr. Ruja's clinic draws from multiple modalities: cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) for emotion dysregulation, interpersonal therapy (IPT) for relationship-focused presentations, EMDR for trauma, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) for experiential avoidance. The clinic emphasizes measurement-based care and transparent discussion of what each therapy offers.
Reviewed by Dr. Ruja Shrestha, MBBS, MD — Consultant Psychiatrist & CBT Therapist (NMC 19766), Kathmandu Neurology Clinic. For evaluation, book an appointment.
CBT focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, using cognitive restructuring and behavioral experiments to modify maladaptive patterns. DBT combines CBT with mindfulness and distress tolerance skills, originally developed for borderline personality disorder but now applied broadly to emotion dysregulation. IPT focuses on interpersonal triggers of depression (grief, role disputes, role transitions, interpersonal deficits). EMDR uses bilateral stimulation to facilitate reprocessing of traumatic memories. ACT promotes psychological flexibility through acceptance, mindfulness, and values-based action.
The selection of psychotherapy modality is guided by diagnosis, evidence base, patient preference, and available resources. Anxiety disorders respond best to CBT with exposure. Depression responds to CBT, IPT, and behavioral activation. PTSD requires trauma-focused therapies (PE, CPT, EMDR). Borderline personality disorder benefits from DBT or mentalization-based therapy. Chronic pain and medically unexplained symptoms respond to ACT and CBT. The clinic uses initial assessment to match modality to patient, discusses the rationale transparently, and tracks outcomes with disorder-specific measures throughout treatment.
Guidelines referenced:
Hofmann SG et al. The efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy: a review of meta-analyses. Cogn Ther ResLinehan MM. DBT Skills Training Manual, 2nd Edition. Guilford PressShapiro F. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Third Edition. Guilford PressContent on this website is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is not a substitute for evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. In case of a medical emergency, contact emergency services immediately. No doctor–patient relationship is established by use of this site or by contacting the clinic through the site.