What does therapy entail?

Therapy varies depending on the client and the therapist. There are various methods and techniques used to deal with problems as they come up. I vary and adapt these methods depending on the personality of the client and the presenting issues. Effective therapy requires active participation and effort from the client in order for the client to get the most out of it. In order to see change, the clients are expected to participate during the session and continue work on the things that are discussed during the sessions on their own.

Psychotherapy has many benefits and some risks. Therapy does involve discussing unpleasant aspects of life and it may bring up unpleasant feelings like sadness, guilt, anger, frustration, loneliness and helplessness. However, therapy has been known to have many benefits for those who go through the process. It can help change negative thought patterns that may be holding the client back from achieving a goal. It can help resolve childhood issues that may be affecting the client in their adult life. It can improve relationships, help reduce distress, provide solutions to specific situations and improve coping skills. However there are no guarantees as to what the outcome will be, results vary based on the client and their individual experiences.

Therapy involves a large commitment of time, energy and money, and so clients should be careful who they work with. It is important to find a therapist that you feel comfortable with, because the most benefit is obtained in a respectful and trusting relationship between client and therapist.