If you are struggling with a mental health disorder, you’ve probably been recommended various forms of individual therapy. From cognitive therapies to group therapies, a broad range of treatments can aid you as you recover from a mental illness. So, what is psychotherapy, you may wonder. Psychotherapy is a popular therapy module that therapists use to treat mental health struggles within an individual therapy program.
A psychotherapy treatment center, such as Atlanta Center for Mental Health, is often the starting point for those hoping to heal from a mental health disorder or a co-occurring condition. To understand the value of psychotherapy, it is important to explore the dynamics of psychotherapy and what to expect in a psychotherapy treatment program. If you need psychotherapy and mental health treatment, contact the experts at Atlanta Center for Mental Health today by calling 833.625.0458.
What is Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy, in its simplest form, is a type of talk therapy. This is differentiated from other forms of treatment that use activity to immerse the client in therapy or use medication as a primary means of help. Instead, you will work through problems and issues through psychotherapy by talking with a therapist. As you and your therapist form a rapport, they can work with you to explore the roots of your mental health struggles.
Through psychotherapy, you will come to understand your feelings and actions better. As a result, you can work to change your behavior and gain greater control over difficult emotions. Instead of feeling helpless due to your emotions and mental issues, you can take charge and be empowered over your life. A psychotherapy treatment program will help you identify what triggers your moods, and you’ll also learn about the connection between your thoughts and behaviors.
What to Expect from Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy一like all forms of individual therapy一can look very different depending on the client’s needs and personalized treatment plan. Generally, sessions will last between 45 and 90 minutes, and your first sessions will begin with your counselor collecting information about you, your mental health history, and your needs. Sometimes clients can resolve their issues in a matter of weeks, while other people may continue in therapy for months or years. Depending on your situation and where you are accessing care, your psychotherapist could be a:
- Psychologist
- Marriage and family therapist
- Social worker
- Clinical professional counselor
- Psychoanalyst
- Psychiatrist
All of these perform slightly different roles, but each focuses on identifying and combating the causes of your mental health struggles.
Who Can Benefit from a Psychotherapy Treatment Program?
Everyone can gain help by being a participant in psychotherapy. Of course, any mental health treatment program will require work and perseverance as you dig deep into potentially difficult emotions. You may experience some uncomfortable feelings as you progress, but you’ll end up on the bright side in the end. Psychotherapy can be helpful for the following conditions:
- Mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Borderline personality disorder
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Substance abuse
- Eating disorders
Types of Psychotherapy in Atlanta
Psychotherapy is an umbrella therapy, which means a group of therapies fall within this category. Some of these therapies include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy program (CBT): During a cognitive behavioral therapy program, you learn to change negative thought patterns to healthy, positive ones.
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): A dialectical behavior therapy program helps you understand how to manage difficult emotions and reduce conflicts.
- Acceptance and commitment therapy: As you learn to accept your feelings during this therapy, you will be more apt to change your behavior.
- Individual therapy: A one-on-one individual therapy program provides an avenue for you to dive deep with a therapist into your problems.
- Family therapy: Reconnecting with family members is an important part of the healing process. During a family therapy program, you can learn effective communication strategies with family.
- Group therapy: A group therapy program enables you to grow and learn from others. Therefore, helping you to share your knowledge with the group.
Learn More About Individual Therapy at Atlanta Center for Mental Health
At Atlanta Center for Mental Health, you will start life anew as you establish your goals and purpose. Our experienced staff will be there to guide you through the challenges of managing a mental health disorder.
Take time to reach out for the help you need and turn your life around to a brighter, more hopeful future. Don’t let mental health disorders steal your peace of mind. You can continue to learn more about psychotherapy and how it can help you by contacting the Atlanta Center for Mental Health at 833.625.0458 or filling out our online contact form.