Demystifying Psychotherapy

Labels have a way of intimidating people, especially when those labels are attached to one’s mental health. Even in these progressive time when self-discovery and personal growth is “in vogue,” psychotherapy is still viewed by many as a process only for people with problems. That’s because the process is misunderstood and requires some “demystification.”

Psychotherapy is an opportunity for freedom. Some people do, indeed, seek help for disabling anxiety, depression, addictions, overwhelming grief, and serious relationship problems. However, it isn't necessary that one be “troubled” to engage in the process. Many come to “unfold,” to get to the core of things inside so that they can be more productive, creative, and to feel more fully alive. When self-exploration leads to self-understanding, it is easier to resolve the past, to be present in the future, and to create a meaningful future.   The purpose of therapy is not to intimidate; it is to emancipate. It explores the way we limit our lives and it extends hope during times of despair.

One of the myths of therapy is that it fosters dependency. Actually, the goal of therapy is to empower.  Therapists are not magicians who have the power to evoke magical “cures.” The competent therapist should be a change agent who works in partnership with people who desire to change and who are ready to take full responsibility for their own lives.

Psychotherapy can offer benefits of shifting perceptions, easing depression and/or anxiety, strengthening self-esteem, resolving family conflicts, and providing additional support for those who require medication management when chemical imbalances alter mood or behavior. It is most effective when the seeker of treatment comes voluntarily, when the therapist is competent and a good match for the client/patient, and when it is financially possible. Elective therapy may not be covered by insurance. When the treatment is “necessary” because serious problems exist, many insurance and managed care plans may cover or reimburse the insured for at least part of costs of care.

When is it time to seek therapy?

• If you are feeling excessively sad, anxious, overwhelmed, angry, or unhappy
• If life feels like it isn’t worth living
• If you find yourself using alcohol, drugs, or food to “self-medicate”
• If you are grieving the loss of a family member, a relationship, a pet, or a job
• If you have a medical condition and are suffering psychologically because of it
• If  your own obstacles are standing in the way of your goals
• If you don’t understand your own behavior
• If you want to improve the quality of your life
• If you want to break self-defeating patterns
• If you want to improve or need to end a relationship
• If you want to explore the  meaning of your life story
• If you want to deepen the connection between your mind, body and spirit

What are the differences between psychotherapy, psychiatry and counseling?

           It used to be that counseling was a process to help resolve everyday problems and psychotherapy was used to treat serious mental illness. Today, these words are frequently used interchangeably. Psychiatrists prescribe medication when medication is needed. However, research confirms that conditions such as depression and anxiety respond better to medication when psychotherapy is an adjunct to treatment.

To demystify psychotherapy means to remove the myths about it. One final myth must be addressed: Engaging in therapy is not a sign of weakness. It requires commitment and a great deal of courage.

Carol Veizer, MA, ACS, NCC, LPC is the director of the NJ Center for the Healing Arts in Red Bank, NJ. The center can be reached by calling 732-747-2944 or by visiting http://www.njcha.org.