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.
Psychotherapy can be a safe space to work together with a professional, whom can help you with your issues, that keeps coming back. Unfortunately it is these struggles that can take over your life and bring immense pain and suffering. If this sounds like you, it is important to reach out for help.
The duration of psychotherapy sessions are chosen between therapist and client. From my experience it takes on average clients between 6-12 sessions to see the first sign of clear results in their lives and 18-26 sessions to create life lasting change from working with psychotherapy.
Some therapists do not believe the therapist should have an agenda, however in therapy I will personally say, I do have an agenda. My agenda is that through therapy you will be able to alleviate from your suffering and move towards a life you truly want to live for yourself and your loved ones.