What is Psychotherapy & Why do People go?

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First of all, let me begin by stating that while there are a number of benefits from participating in therapy; it is important to understand what therapy is, and perhaps more importantly, what it is not. 

For one, therapy is not coaching; nor do we prescribe medication. 

As Registered Psychotherapists, we elicit and employ "talk therapy" through a variety of modalities, approaches and support to provide support, clarity, and/or problem-solving skills to our clients in order to create, foster, or enhance the particular coping strategies for individuals, couples, and families alike. 

As for the reasoning behind why people go; the reasons can be as varied as the individuals themselves. As RPs, we can offer both preventative, and interventionary help in navigating issues such as: 

• Anxiety & Depression 
• Self-Esteem Issues
• Relationship Struggles,
• Addictions (Work, Food, Drugs, etc.)
• Guilt & Shame 
• Anger Management
• Fear
• Childhood Issues, 
• Grief and & Loss 
• Stress Management,
• PTSD/Trauma
• Body Image Issues 
• Attachment & Co-Dependency
• Burnout, and 
• Self-harm & Suicide
• Creative Blocks; etc., etc. 

As for what therapy can do for you, as mentioned above, the reasons people elicit the help of a skilled therapist can be as varied as the individuals themselves. 

And while competency and ability will also vary from professional to professional, the evidence continues to show that RPs can be a tremendous asset to: 

• Managing Personal Growth & Development,
• Determining Life Purpose
• Navigating Gender and/or Sexuality Issues
• Fleshing Out Employment/Education Goals/Aspirations,
• Maneuver Through Interpersonal Relationships,
• Define/Explore Spirituality
• Address Family/Marital/Familial Concerns/Issues, and
• Any Other of the Hassles of Daily Life.

While true that, within their specific area of expertise, therapists can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem and/or point you in the direction of a solution; there ought to be no doubt that:

• The catalyst for change begins and ends with the individual(s), and 
• The resulting benefit(s) obtained from therapy depend solely on how well the client(s) use the process and put into practice what they have learned. 

If there's something I've missed, please feel free to click the button below and ask.

And remember, there is no such thing as a stupid question; if it's important to you, then it's important to me!