Psychotherapy plays an important role in the treatment of addictions and psychological disorders. It allows you to find out the causes of problems and learn new ways of dealing with difficult situations. Although it is often associated with a relapse (for example, from childhood), it can significantly affect the quality of the future and the achievement of spiritual balance. So let’s consider what it actually is and why it works.
Definition and history of psychotherapy
This method of treatment is based on proven psychological theories and techniques. When considering what psychotherapy is and why it works, it is worth paying attention to the origin of the name. In Ancient Greek, the literal translation is psychḗ ‘soul’ and therapeía ‘healing’. One of the first patients to use this treatment described it as a “talking cure”. An important role is played here by talking to a specialist. Therapeutic sessions are an integral part of rehab in such centers as Brookdale.
Therapeutic sessions are accompanied by various emotions, thanks to which you can take a closer look at certain patterns of conduct. However, whether the treatment works depends largely on the involvement of the patient and the therapist.
Forms of assistance
When looking for answers to the questions of what psychotherapy is and why it works, it is worth paying attention to the fact that there are various forms, the selection of which depends on the specifics of the patient’s problem (therefore diagnostics play an important role). We distinguish, among others, therapy:
- individual – is aimed at building a relationship with a psychotherapist based on trust, support, acceptance and respect; thanks to this, you can create a safe basis for the free expression of your own emotions;
- group – it can be especially helpful in a situation when the Patient feels lonely and misunderstood by society because of his problem, which translates into a lack of openness in conversation with the therapist; contact with people who face similar difficulties may turn out to be an important element of the treatment process, as well as an opportunity to develop social competences;
- family – recommended especially for minors; family participation in meetings with a specialist may positively affect the effects of treatment.
- Choosing the right form of therapy will help to achieve a positive result. Before making a decision, however, it is worth making an appointment with a specialist from the Optima clinic, who will advise you which option will work best. He will also answer bothering questions, for example, about what psychotherapy is and why it works.
The most important benefits
Fighting an addiction or other psychological problem can involve some anxiety and stress – especially if we don’t know what psychotherapy is and why it works. However, it is worth overcoming anxiety and contacting a specialist for professional help. You should be aware that after the first sessions you may feel like giving up, because this is how the defense mechanism works – the body shies away from unpleasant emotions that are associated with analyzing difficult life experiences. Each subsequent meeting with the therapist, however, brings the patient closer to breaking the looped self-destructive behavior.
By talking openly with a person who does not judge and does not impose his views, you can get to know yourself better, become aware of the reasons for the current behavior and find alternative methods of coping with everyday difficulties. However, immediate effects should not be expected – each Patient carries his own baggage of experience, so the duration of therapy varies from case to case.
However, it is worth using this method of treatment for drug addiction, because the acquired ability to deal with obstacles will remain for life – especially if the person is aware of what psychotherapy is and why it works, and approaches the treatment process with commitment. Please contact us to arrange the first visit.
