Psychological treatment is also called ‘psychotherapy’ or ‘talking therapy’. It is used alone or in combination with other physical therapies to treat mental illnesses.
Psychotherapy involves talking and sharing your thoughts with a professional to:
- Reduce your mental illness symptoms
- Understand and resolve your problems
- Change your behavior
- Better understand your thinking and behavior
- Recognize signs of mental illness in yourself
- Improve your quality of life
Research and clinical trials show that most psychological treatments work well for mental, emotional, and behavioral issues and disorders. This treatment method is useful for people of all ages, including children. It can help you irrespective of your cultural, social, and linguistic backgrounds.
What Are The Main Types Of Psychology Treatments?
Psychology oriented therapies are characterized by a close working connection between the patient and therapist. This therapeutic relationship helps you learn about yourself by exploring your interactions. The main types of psychotherapy treatments include;
Behavior therapy - This treatment approach focuses on the role of learning in developing both normal and abnormal behaviors.
Cognitive therapy - It emphasizes what you think rather than what you do.
Humanistic therapy - This therapy emphasizes your capacity to develop your maximum potential and make rational choices.
Integrative or Holistic therapy - It involves blending elements from different treatment approaches and tailor them according to your needs.
Who Can Provide Psychological Treatments?
In most cases, psychiatrists are psychotherapy specialists who provide psychological treatments for mental illnesses. However, psychologists, mental health nurses, counselors, some GPs, and social workers also offer psychological therapies. Not all people who provide psychological treatments have experience or professional training in that therapy. You should ask your therapist about educational qualifications as well as their practical experience before your first appointment.
Why Get Psychological Treatment?
Psychological treatments are usually proven to treat mental illnesses, such as:
- Depression
- Addiction
- Anxiety
- Phobias
- Personality disorders
- Eating disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
Many psychological therapies are also being used to help people deal with:
- Stress
- Grief and trauma
- Relationship and emotional problems
It may take several weeks for you to see positive results from most psychological treatments. Some types may even take a year or more for you to get a comprehensive benefit.
Psychotherapy is not a quick fix, but studies have proven that its positive effects are usually long-lasting.