Psychotherapy, often known as talk therapy, is a treatment option for a wide range of mental health concerns and emotional distress. The goal of psychotherapy is to help people feel better by addressing their thoughts, behaviors and emotions.
Psychotherapy can be addressed with many other terms, such as therapy, psychological therapy, counseling, etc. It is important to note that the term can vary but the goal of therapy is always to help individuals to process their emotions and other concerns.
The only distinction that is required to keep in mind is that the professional/therapist must hold a minimum of a master’s degree in psychology.
Psychotherapy usually assists with a wide range of issues, including those related to day-to-day functioning, the after-effects of traumatic events, physical disease, or grief (such as the death of a loved one), and psychiatric diagnoses including depression and anxiety. Certain concerns may respond better to particular forms of psychotherapy than others. Medication or other treatments may be used in combination with psychotherapy.
Therapy Sessions
Children and adults of all ages may benefit from therapy, whether provided as an individual, family, couple, or group basis. Usually, sessions are conducted once a week for approx. 45-60 minutes. Psychotherapy is most effective when both the patient and the therapist are making an effort. In order to make progress in therapy, it is crucial that the therapist and patient develop a strong working relationship based on mutual trust and respect.
Depending upon the needs, goals, and intensity of the client’s distress, therapy can last from a few sessions to maybe a few months or even years. The patient and the therapist work together to determine treatment objectives and establish a schedule for how frequently and long to meet.
Psychotherapy relies heavily on client confidentiality. Thus, beyond the common exceptions (definitely ask about this from your therapist) to confidentiality, all information usually stays confidential and is your right!
Medication and Psychotherapy
Mental health disorders are generally treated with a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Medication has obvious benefits in certain cases, while psychotherapy excels in others.
Medication and psychotherapy work better together than separately. Recovery and well-being may be aided by adopting healthier habits including eating healthily, exercising often, and getting enough sleep.
Medications are not always the norm in therapy. It depends on multiple factors; therefore, please ask your therapist if you have further queries.
How Effective Is Talk Therapy?
Most persons who go through therapy report improvements in their symptoms and overall quality of life. Around 75% of those who try therapy feel better as a result. Improvements in brain and body health have been related to the beneficial effects of therapy.
Researchers have used brain imaging tools to observe structural and functional changes in the brain after therapy. Many studies have shown that persons with mental illnesses (such as depression, panic disorder, PTSD, and others) who undertake therapy see measurable changes in brain structure and function.
To get the most out of therapy, it’s best to approach it as a collaborative effort, communicate openly and honestly, and follow the treatment plan. It’s important to keep up with homework between sessions, whether it’s keeping a diary or putting what you’ve learned into practice.
A word from TCF…
Therapy can be helpful in many scenarios, that may vary from mental illnesses to other mental health concerns. Therapy is not limited to Anxiety, depression, OCD, and other clinical concerns but can be a powerful tool in dealing will stressors related to relationships, inner child critic, grief, parenting difficulties and much more.
Therefore, if you have any sort of emotional distress, consider therapy as an alternative as well. Talk to people around you, ask for referrals, or book a session with our qualified psychologists.