• What is psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is often referred to as “talking cure” because it uses talking to help people of all ages live happier, healthier and more productive lives. Psychotherapy is a collaborative treatment based on the relationship between an individual and a psychotherapist. Grounded in dialogue, it provides a supportive environment that allows you to talk openly with someone who is objective, neutral and nonjudgmental. The aim is to work together to identify and change the thought and behavior patterns that are keeping you from feeling your best. Other goals may include 
• Understand your mental health condition
• Define and reach wellness goals
• Overcome fears or insecurities
• Cope with stress and crises
• Make sense of your life
• Improve relationships with family and friends
• Understand why things bother you and what you can do about them
• End destructive habits such as drinking, drug use, overeating, or unhealthy sex. 

Psychotherapy sessions are open-ended, dictated by the client’s needs rather than a set schedule or agenda. They are typically scheduled once a week and last about an hour. 

• When should you consider psychotherapy?

The following feelings are signs that you could benefit from therapy:
• Overwhelming feelings of helplessness and sadness.
• A sense that your problems never get better despite a lot of efforts and help from family and friends.
• Difficulties concentrating on work, studies, or carrying out everyday activities.
• Excessive worrying, expecting the worst, and feeling constantly on edge.
• The need to drink excessive alcohol, to use illicit drugs, and inability to control anger. 

There are plenty of evidence showing psychotherapy helps people make positive changes in their lives. Psychotherapy can create a new way of looking difficult issues and help people move toward solutions. You can gain better understanding of yourself, your own goals and values, and can develop new skills to live a more fulfilling life.