According to both the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA), one in five individuals experience depression, anxiety or another mental disorder. Others need help coping with medical diagnoses, coping with relationship troubles, job stress, the death of a loved one, or other issues. These problems can often become debilitating.
What is Psychotherapy?
A psychologist can help you work through issues such as those described above. Through psychotherapy, psychologists can help individuals of all ages live happier, healthier and more productive lives.
In psychotherapy, psychologists apply evidence-based treatments to help people develop healthier, more effective habits. There are several modes of psychotherapy that can help individuals work through their issues. Psychotherapy is a collaborative in that it is based on the relationship between an individual and a therapist. It provides a forum for you to talk openly with someone objective, neutral and nonjudgmental.
Confidentiality
Information disclosed to a psychologist is confidential and cannot be disclosed without the client’s consent except under certain specific conditions (Canadian Psychological Association).
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a well-known and effective type of mental health treatment. Cognitive behavioral theory believes that psychological symptoms are the result of the interaction between thoughts, behaviors, and feelings. In CBT, the therapist and client work as partners in a structured manner. The goal is for the client to become aware of inaccurate and negative ways of thinking and behaving so that s/he can view challenging situations in a clearer manner and respond to them more effectively. While CBT can be very useful in treating psychological disorders, such as anxiety and depression, it can also be highly effective in helping any individual learn how to better manage stressful life situations. Some of the strategies commonly used in this therapy include stress management, breathing retraining, thought stopping, and mindfulness training.
