Psychology & Psychotherapy
More people need help with mental health issues which has resulted in a rapid growth of mental health care practitioners. New types of therapies are readily available and further information about the treatment of psychology or psychotherapy is needed. Put simply psychology and psychotherapy are about the scientific study of the mind and human behaviour. They are concerned with how people think, act, react, and interact. They are multi-faceted disciplines which include numerous sub-fields like sports, human development, social behaviour, health, and cognitive processes.
Their Beginnings
The study of psychology & psychotherapy is fairly new and the majority of the advancements recorded in these mental health fields have occurred in the past half century. However, the origins can be traced back to ancient Greece from about 2,500 years ago. The great Greek philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle are believed to have planted the seeds of psychology. These early philosophers discussed topics that are now part and parcel of modern psychology such as attraction, free will, and memory.
Psychotherapy or Counselling
As a discipline, psychology and the treatment method of psychotherapy (also known as counselling) is primarily focused on the normal functioning of the mind. Although both explore other areas such as memory, perception, emotion, motivation, and other mental and emotional processes. Psychotherapy helps a person to understand more about their moods, feelings, behaviours, and actions. These things can impact how a person lives and whether their life is a success. Psychotherapy helps a person to take back control of their environment as it helps them respond better to difficult situations. Psychotherapy can help a person develop effective and lasting coping strategies.
Check Qualifications
Anyone can call themselves a psychotherapist or counsellor. It is recommended that the qualifications of the psychotherapist or counsellor are checked before engaging in therapy. The minimum qualification to accept is a Master of Counselling Degree. Professional psychotherapists or counsellors have usually trained for at least 4 years before obtaining their degree.
When to see a psychotherapist?
Psychotherapy can be very effective in treating many health problems like:
- Anxiety disorders including phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder
- Mood disorders like bipolar disorder and depression
- Addictions like alcoholism, substance abuse, and even compulsive gambling
- Eating disorders like bulimia
- Personality disorders like dependent personality disorder and borderline personality disorder
- Schizophrenia and psychotic disorders
Mental Illness
Another misconception that people have with psychotherapy is that it treats only people with very serious mental health problems. But the truth is that it can also be effective in relieving stress and addressing conflicts. For instance, it may be used in resolving conflicts between a couple. It can also help in relieving anxiety or stress due to work-related pressure. Even those who are coping with major life changes like loss of a job, the death of a loved one, and parent can benefit from a psychotherapy session.
Some people also rely on therapy to manage unhealthy reactions like road range which is related to anger management. Others attend psychotherapy sessions to come to terms with a serious health condition like cancer, chronic pain, and diabetes. Even people who have trouble sleeping or staying asleep can benefit from psychotherapy.
There are differences between the different types of approaches in therapy. If you want to find out more speak to a qualified therapist. It is important that the therapist and client have a good therapeutic relationship for the therapy to be effective.
So, take your time and choose the correct therapist for you.
: Executive Coach & Leadership Consultant