Fourni par Blogger.

By Harriett Crosby


A psychotherapist helps cure clients who are suffering from certain emotional or mental disorders, or assists them to efficiently manage their lives in spite of their condition or disorder. The ultimate goal is to help such patients to achieve a higher level of happiness on a daily basis. The therapy usually involves assisting the client to reach a state of mind that is more positive and balanced. Most psychotherapy revolves around counseling and behavioral therapy, and focuses on effective communication with regard to ideas and feelings.

Some psychotherapists use nonverbal communication methods to create more intense channels between themselves and clients who have difficulties concerning verbal expression. In the majority of clinical practices, the basic plan focuses on 2 kinds of therapy, which are psychodynamics and cognitive behavioral techniques.

Qualified practitioners who possess the necessary skills usually aim to evaluate their clients' psychological issues and tailor their plan of care to those needs. They realize that if the patient is to benefit from the therapy, subconscious resistance must be eliminated. When the patient learns to change his or her thought patterns and behavior, he or she can actively work toward recovery.

Psychotherapy addresses a broad range of emotional conditions and mental illnesses. These include bipolar disorder, panic attacks, irrational fears and phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, posttraumatic stress syndrome, depression, and schizophrenia. Treatment of this kind may also benefit those diagnosed with a condition called borderline personality disorder.

Understanding that more than one session will be necessary is essential. To experience initial benefits from such treatment, one must typically attend a minimum of 12 sessions. This is because it is necessary for a person to open up to the therapist in order for positive changes to be experienced, and this is unlikely to happen after a solitary session.

Although there is no specific time frame associated with such therapy, twenty sessions are generally necessary prior to the treatment offering major beneficial results. If there is no notable change by that time, other options should be pursued. The latter may include the use of medication or extensive behavioral therapy programs. Most therapists will make further recommendations if traditional methods do not provide satisfactory results.

The part of psychotherapy that addresses habits and behavior often calls for the client to complete exercises, both in the professional's office and at his or her own dwelling in between sessions. These exercises may involve visualization, breathing techniques, and other relaxing activities. Emotional problems must be faced gradually in order to enable the person to gain freedom from the elements that are prohibiting him or her from living a happy, positive life.

When the individual begins to feel as if his or her life has become positive and balanced, the psychotherapist will usually recommend that treatment commence. These recommendations will vary greatly from one patient to another. If a future relapse occurs, a short series of sessions is typically helpful regarding getting the client back on track. Anyone who is facing emotional or mental problems that feel overwhelming should seek professional help without delay.




About the Author: