If you’ve never gone to therapy before, the idea may be intimidating. You may not know what to expect, or you may feel embarrassed. You may question whether you even need to see a therapist at all.
But the fact is, psychotherapy can immensely improve a person’s quality of life. According to the American Psychological Association, about 75% of people who enter psychotherapy say they benefit from it, and research shows they’re better able to function in their day-to-day activities.
Here are just a few of the ways going to therapy can boost your motivation, self-esteem, and the overall state of your mental health.
- Overcome harmful behaviors
Therapists help you identify negative thought patterns and destructive behaviors, then teach you strategies to avoid them. This is particularly beneficial to people who are struggling with self-harm, eating disorders, or suicidal thoughts.
- Identify triggers
Many times, your negative behaviors are set off by triggers, or external circumstances that provoke unpleasant emotions or feelings. In therapy, you’ll learn to notice when you’re triggered and create strategies for controlling your response.
- Learn healthy coping mechanisms
When faced with stressful situations, you may react in a way that’s ineffective or even dangerous. Replacing those reactions with healthy, positive coping mechanisms can help you manage your emotions and stay productive.
- Heal broken relationships
Healthy interpersonal relationships are crucial to your mental health; when they suffer, you suffer. Learn to improve communication and resolve conflicts constructively through therapy, and your relationships with your friends and family may grow stronger.
- Feel physically healthier
Studies show that people who engage in psychotherapy end up taking fewer sick days and encountering fewer medical problems. Scientists have also identified positive changes in the brain and body as a result of therapy.
- Improve self-reliance
Psychotherapy helps you develop problem-solving skills, build your confidence, and become more self-aware. This encourages you to take personal responsibility for your actions and learn to manage your mental health issues, now and for the rest of your life.
Different Approaches to Psychotherapy
There are many different approaches to psychotherapy, each designed to address different mental health conditions and a wide variety of different people. Some examples of psychotherapy styles are:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
Also known as CBT, this is a solution-oriented therapy that helps patients identify the root causes of their dysfunctional thinking and behavior and implement strategies to overcome them.
- Dialectical behavior therapy
A type of CBT, dialectical therapy focuses on helping patients regulate their emotions through the use of mindfulness, distress tolerance, and improved communication. It’s often effective in treating people affected by borderline personality disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Interpersonal therapy
Most often used to treat depression or other mood disorders, interpersonal therapy teaches patients to express their feelings in healthy ways, manage unresolved grief or other life transitions, and resolve conflicts productively.
- Psychodynamic therapy
This in-depth form of talk therapy encourages patients to speak freely in an effort to uncover unresolved issues that may be impacting their current behavior. Addressing problems of the past increases self-awareness, allowing patients to analyze and modify their current dysfunctional behaviors.
The type of therapy you receive depends on your individual needs and preferences, and your treatment plan could include components of different ones. A trusted mental health professional will be able to advise you on which approach is best for you.
Alvarado Parkway Institute Offers Psychotherapy for a Wide Range of Issues
Whether you’re struggling with depression or seeking to better understand the source of difficulties in your relationships, psychotherapy at Alvarado Parkway Institute can help to resolve your issues. We offer both individual and group therapy, as well as medication management for those who require it. Our skilled, experienced team of psychologists, psychiatrists, and other mental health professionals will perform a thorough mental health assessment to identify the best course of treatment for you.
To schedule an appointment with one of our caring, compassionate staff members, call us at (619) 485-1432.
