Psychotherapy: what it is
What is Psychotherapy?
What it is: Psychotherapy, often referred to as ‘talk therapy,’ is used to improve the psycho-social functionality of a person suffering from mental health issues or problems, help clients find ways to resolve conflict with self and others, adjust to new roles in life and foster better relationships. It also aides in assessing and resolving distress and lowering risk of self-harm and disruptive behaviours. It creates a safe space for clients to access and explore their feelings and emotions, and helps them discover what contributes to their state of discontent or suffering.
How it works: Psychotherapy provides a supportive environment that allows the client to talk openly with someone who is objective, neutral and non-judgmental… the psychotherapeutic relationship is one of unconditional positive regard. It works to change thought and behaviour patterns and shift entrenched emotions that keep the client from feeling, and being, their best self.
Benefits it provides: The benefits are numerous, though their realisation is dependent on the engagement and commitment of the client to pursue active and lasting change. Some of the benefits realised by clients include:
* improved productivity
* improved sleep
* reduced stress
* engaged emotional intelligence
* ability to cope and thrive
* emotional release and healing
* helps one discover how to live a more conscious, focused life
* helps client unfold a different perspective and understanding around behaviours and choices
* reveals emotional behaviour patterns
* helps client get clear on what is important to them
* identifies client’s self-care needs
Who is it best suited to/for: If you experience any of the following, psychotherapy might be a good fit for you:
* you feel overwhelming, prolonged sense of sadness and hopelessness
* you feel ‘stuck’ in life and have lost interest in pursuits that were once enjoyable
* your problems don’t seem to get better despite your efforts or help from family and friends
* you find it difficult to concentrate on work or other everyday activities
* you worry excessively, expect the worst or are constantly on edge
* your actions, such as drinking too much alcohol or using drugs, or being aggressive, is harming you or others
* you have a hard time sustaining relationships
Therapy works
There are a variety of approaches and modalities that can be applied in psychotherapy and all of what I do is client-centred. I create safe space for you to explore your feelings and experiences and serve as a point of reflection. You remain in the “driver’s seat” of the experience and the pace, depth and direction is ultimately up to you. I will reflect, inquire and clarify your expressions and support you in discovering emotional release, healing and freedom. I am here to support you on your journey to wholeness!
Working with you
There are a variety of approaches, resources, tools and modalities that the psychotherapeutic relationship applies. From talk therapy, to transpersonal and to inner child work to body psychotherapy, the best applications are determined by the client’s need and ‘fit.’ Some modalities will work extremely well for some clients, yet have no affect for others. The therapist will meet the client where they are at in their personal process, and suggest what is the best fit for the therapeutic need presenting.
Everyone’s experiences and perspectives are unique – no one feels or perceives the same as you do and be. Others might be able to comprehend your experience from their own point of view, but they cannot know or truly understand yours. With psychotherapy, you remain at centre of the process, and the therapist will help you access your own wisdom and truth. And that, ultimately, is where one’s personal healing lies.