What is Psychotherapy
Getting help for depression, anxiety or any other psychological concern is a big step toward feeling better. Drug therapy has become an increasing popular choice over the past decade, but research shows that psychotherapy is just as helpful—if not more so, in some cases. You always have a choice when getting treatment for depression, anxiety or other psychological concerns. Psychotherapy is one of those choices.
A therapy session involves communication between patients and therapists that is intended to help people:
(a) Find relief from emotional distress, as in becoming less anxious, fearful or depressed.
(b) Seek solutions to problems in their lives, such as dealing with disappointment, grief, family issues, and job or career dissatisfaction.
(c) Modify ways of thinking and acting that are preventing them from working productively and enjoying personal relationships.
When you reach a point in your life when you want professional help, you want to talk to someone with whom you feel comfortable and whom you can trust. A good friend can listen, but a psychologist has the skills and professional training to help you learn to manage your stress and emotions when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
A psychologist can help you identify your problems and figure out ways to best cope with them; change unhealthy behaviors and habits; and find constructive ways to deal with a situation that is beyond your control. In other words, a psychologist can improve both your physical and mental well-being.
- It’s time to talk to a psychologist when...
- you want to prevent life’s stressors from threatening your physical or emotional health
- you want to build your confidence and resilience to meet challenges head-on
- you want to gain a mental edge to be your best at your job and with your family
- you or someone in your family has been diagnosed with a chronic illness
- you’re overwhelmed and can’t handle the problem yourself