A Psychotherapist Offers Helpful Treatment Options

By Harriett Crosby


Patients suffering from specific emotional or mental conditions can be cured or taught to effectively manage their lives when the services of a psychotherapist are sought. The primary objective of such a practitioner is to assist individuals suffering from disorders of this type to live happy lives. Such therapy generally involves supporting the client and helping him or her to reach a balanced and positive state of mind. Sessions of this type typically revolve around counseling and behavioral therapy, with a primary focus on the proficient communication of ideas and feelings.

Certain psychotherapists attempt to create more efficient communication channels between themselves and their patience who find verbal expression challenging. When this is the case, nonverbal communication methods are often used. In most clinical practices, basic plans center on two types of therapy: cognitive behavioral techniques and psychodynamics.

Trustworthy practitioners with suitable training usually attempt to evaluate their clients' psychological problems and subsequently create a tailored therapy plan for each individual. They know that subconscious resistance must be eliminated if the therapy is to be beneficial. When the patient learns how to change destructive behavior and negative thought patterns, he or she can start down the road to recovery.

Psychotherapy addresses a variety of mental illnesses and emotional disorders. These include panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias and irrational fears, post traumatic stress syndrome, schizophrenia, depression, and bipolar disorder. Therapy of this type may also be helpful for individuals diagnosed with something called borderline personality disorder.

It is important for patients to realize that a solitary session is not sufficient to resolve all their problems. In order to fully benefit from psychotherapy, a minimum of 12 sessions are typically required. This is due to the fact that the client must open up to the therapist if anything is to change, and this does not usually happen during the first or second visit.

Even though the time frame will vary from one patient to the next, before major beneficial results are noted, most individuals require approximately 20 sessions. If there is no major change after approximately 20 appointments, more expensive therapy may be indicated, or a person may require medication. Most practitioners will make additional recommendations if traditional techniques do not offer the appropriate results.

The aspect of psychotherapy that focuses on behavior and habits usually calls for the patient to complete exercises in the practitioner's office, as well as in between sessions at home. These exercises include relaxation techniques, such as visualization and specific breathing techniques. It is necessary to gradually face emotional problems so that a person can gain freedom from the elements that prevent him or her from experiencing a happy, positive existence.

When the patient starts to feel better and more positive about his or her life, the psychotherapist will typically recommend that the sessions commence. How and when this is done will vary substantially from one individual to the next. If a relapse occurs in the future, a short series of therapy sessions is usually helpful with regard to getting the patient back on track. Those who feel overwhelmed by mental or emotional problems should seek therapy as soon as possible.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment