You don't need a diagnosis to benefit from psychotherapy
Do you feel that you’re not meeting your full potential in life? Are there aspects of your personality and habits that you would rather change? Even if you do not have significant mental health issues, have never experienced particular trauma and do not have any specific disorder or mental illness, you could still benefit hugely from psychotherapy.
What is psychotherapy?
Sometimes known as ‘talking therapy’, psychotherapy broadly involves allowing someone to identify and breakdown their internal struggles, why they might have arisen and how to overcome them. It allows you to learn more about your true self.
I’m not mentally ill – will I still benefit from psychotherapy?
Admitting that you need help can be a barrier to seeking the services of a psychotherapist. However, the perception that you need to be diagnosed as having a mental disorder before you are eligible for psychotherapy is unfounded and potentially damaging – it is not a good idea to wait until things get so bad!
Psychotherapy can help you work through all manner of problems, from relationship concerns to career uncertainties. It is also used to treat serious problems including depression, eating disorders and post-traumatic stress.
What does psychotherapy involve?
There are many branches of psychological theory behind psychotherapy, and different therapists use different techniques. If you do not click with the first therapist you meet, try another one; finding the right person for you can involve trial-and-error. Explore your options and do not be afraid to ask questions and scrutinise therapists’ methods.
Sessions typically last one hour and traditionally involve meeting a therapist in person. However, psychotherapy via Skype and email is a growing market and suits many people.
Some find they only require a few sessions to breakdown their problems and establish a way forward, whereas others may benefit from regular psychotherapy that lasts for months or years.
Commit and persevere!
No therapist has a magic pill to cure you of your troubles; it takes time and commitment from you. Be prepared to trust in the process, be patient and approach your journey of self-discovery with an open mind.
