There are four main theorical approaches in psychotherapy. These differ from each other in their origins, the techniques used and the developmental aspects they favour.

The psychodynamic-analytical approach
Strongly influenced by psychoanalysis and drawing on the notion of the unconscious, this approach focuses on the link between the client's presenting problem and his experiences, the repressed and unresolved conflicts in his personal history. By gaining awareness of the influence of these unconscious conflicts on his current behaviour, the client comes to better understand them and gradually free himself from their influence.

The existential-humanist approach
The existential-humanist approach is founded on human beings' ability to control their existence and realize their full potential. The focus is on the here and now, on the client's ability to become aware of his current problems, to understand them and consequently to change how he is or acts. The psychologist facilitates the client's exploration of himself and experimentation with new ways of being and acting. The client is seen as being on equal footing with the therapist. The Rogerian approach, Gestalt therapy and self-development are examples of this type of approach.

The cognitive-behavioural approach
Psychotherapists who specialize in the cognitive-behavioural approach believe that psychological problems are related to maladaptive thoughts and behaviour that are learned by individuals in their everyday environment. Their focus is therefore to analyze these thoughts and behaviour and the individual's life environment, to learn new ways of behaving and replace these undesired thoughts and emotions with more constructive ones. Behaviour therapy and emotive-rational therapy are examples of this type of approach.

The systemic-interactional approach
According to the systemic-interactional approach, a person's problems stem from the type of interaction between the person and those around him (family, friends, co-workers, etc.). Once the problem situation has been analyzed, the goal of the therapy is to change the relationships between the person and others. As a result, it is not unusual for the psychologist to meet with important members of the client's circle. Family therapy and brief therapy are examples of this type of approach.