A map of mental wellbeing theories

Last year I set out to draw a visual map of ideas in therapy. Over time, I realised the wide range of historical influences that have contributed to the development of current therapeutic models and approaches. And the map became larger and larger. 

I had to “finish it” one day, and by that I mean print it and publish it for the first time. That time is today. But I don’t think this is finished at all, since the more I learn the more I add, tweak, take away and reconsider. New versions are to come. Speaking of which, if you have any feedback, please tell me.  

In the end, I have included a wide range of ideas and theories – whether they come from individuals or living traditions – that have contributed to our understanding of mental wellbeing. 

So there is psychiatry, psychology and psychoanalysis, yes. But there is also philosophy, medicine, neuroscience, humanism and social justice. There is West and there is East. There is science and there is art. 

Maybe one day I will do a write up of this map and reflect on the myriad influences between people and ideas. I gave up for now on the idea of representing this visually because I found this way too complex. Many have influenced many. But intuitively you may notice the psychoanalysts, existentialists, cognitive-behaviouralists, the somatic, the Western philosophical canon, the Eastern tradition, the mystics loosely grouped amongst themselves and bleeding into each other as their lines blur. 

I am no expert on anyone or anything I have included here. I may have got some stuff wrong, and over time I attempt to correct it. 

I hope students of therapy (and other curious minds) find this reference helpful to understand who thought about what. I have certainly enjoyed putting this together. 

You can buy this as a poster and get it delivered.