What is psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy or commonly known as talk-therapy is an effective way to treat a number of mental health issues. Psychotherapy sessions are held with a therapist and client working as a team to improve the clients psychological flexibility and creation of a meaningful life.
To understand how this is possible, we can look to Relational Frame Theory (RFT). Through language and cognition we are able to relate one concept to another.
We have used this superpower to be able to solve complex problems and it has been one of the biggest advantages to mankind, leading to incredible developments such as science, architecture and technology. At the same time this ability to problem-solve can amplify suffering, when applied to fixing thoughts and emotions.
Usually, when you turn to therapy you have tried a number of ways to solve your struggles. Perhaps some of them have worked to bring a short term relief and others to keep returning in the long term. Every behavior we have is learnt and often gives a reward. It is that good thing that reinforces us to keep doing it, even when it is problematic to your life. Most of these behaviors we are not even aware of, as they have been learnt from early in our childhood.