Q What is psychotherapy?
A
Psychotherapy (or "therapy") can take many forms in terms of frequency
and approach. In general, it is a once-a-week, 45-minute meeting during
which issues affecting your life are discussed and explored. Much of
what is therapeutic takes place on a deeper emotional level. If it were
simply a cognitive exercise, we would be able to think our way out of
our problems.
Q When should a person seek help?
A
When someone is not satisfied with their life they may want to consider
consulting a psychologist. Anxiety, depression, loneliness,
frustration, or fear that interferes with the quality of one's life are
all good reasons to consider therapy. As well, undue conflict in
relationships often point toward issues that may be worth addressing in
therapy.
Q Why psychotherapy?
A Psychotherapy can be very helpful in facilitating a
variety of personal changes that will contribute to a more satisfying
life. This typically means understanding and changing behavior that
doesn't seem to be working for you - improving your relationships,
conquering fears/anxiety and reducing depression. It can also mean
developing the positive aspects of life that are so valuable - love, creativity, joy, playfulness, intimacy, sensuality and compassion.
Q Do my problems require professional help?
A Unfortunately, many people have associated the use of therapy
with some form of 'mental illness' or for those that have 'serious
problems'. As a result, many individuals don't explore the possibility
of therapy, believing their problems aren't serious enough to warrant
professional help. The opposite is often true - those with less severe
issues often benefit the most from therapy due to their ability to make
more rapid changes.