Areas of Treatment: Finding a Therapist in Los Angeles
If you’re considering starting therapy for the first time, you’re probably wondering ,what does a therapist do, exactly? There are many different types of psychotherapy, and each therapist has their own unique style. But, generally speaking, therapists help clients to access and express their feelings, identify the underlying causes of suffering, develop goals, and move toward achieving them.
Put differently, therapists help people understand and organize their experiences to make meaning in their lives. Because therapists can differ so vastly in both approach and personality, you might consider consulting with several before choosing the therapist you want to work with–it’s important that you find a therapist in Los Angeles that you feel you can trust.
Areas of Psychotherapy Treatment
If you are looking for mental health therapy in Los Angeles, I have experience and training in the following areas:
Follow the links above to learn more about my particular perspective on these issues. I work with both individuals or couples, collaborating to blend therapy modalities to fit the needs of my clients.
Is Therapy Different From Psychotherapy?
The short answer is no. In a broader context, the term “therapy” might refer to physical, speech, or occupational therapy. But, in the context of mental health treatment, the terms “therapy” and “psychotherapy” are often used interchangeably.
The phrase “talk therapy” is also synonymous. In fact, “talk therapy” may be the most apt, since it explicitly makes clear that sessions use talking and listening to treat the problem, rather than medicine or physical activity.
This leads to another common question: “What’s the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist?” Psychologists use talk therapy to treat symptoms; psychiatrists use medicine.
While the phrases “talk therapy,” “therapy,” and “psychotherapy,” are synonymous, that certainly doesn’t mean all therapy sessions are the same. Psychotherapy treatment utilizes a range of modalities—such as cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoanalysis, or humanistic therapy—and therapists vary in which modalities they prefer.
Benefits of Therapy
Some people seek therapy to treat an acute, debilitating illness, like severe OCD or major depression. But therapy can be invaluable long before you hit crisis mode. A few of the benefits of therapy include:
Changing unhelpful thoughts
Developing better ways to cope with and manage stress
Building self-esteem and confidence
Improving communication skills
Develop insight about personality
Overcoming destructive habits and behaviors
So, what does a therapist do? Simply put: they help you build the life you want. Find a therapist in Los Angeles who you’re confident to work with. . If you’d like to connect with me, schedule a consultation to see if we’re a good fit.