How to Gain Insight and Awareness through Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy

An effective therapy to manage a range of mental health concerns

How can psychotherapy nourish you?

Psychotherapy refers to a group of therapies,^[1] such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, dialectal behaviour therapy or family therapy. These treatments are provided by counsellors, psychiatrists or psychologists,^[2] and are aimed at relieving emotional distress and mental health concerns.

Also known as “talk therapy”,^[3] psychotherapy borrows core principles from the ancient Greeks,^[4] who were the first to recognise the value of using encouraging and consoling words to treat mental illness.

Unlike counselling, which generally refers to a shorter-term treatment, psychotherapy typically works over a longer period.^[5] As such, counselling deals with current, surface level issues. In contrast, psychotherapy involves extensive examination into a person’s psychological history to help understand his/her deep-seated patterns of behaviour.

The purpose of psychotherapy is to use talking with a trained professional as a way of exploring thoughts, feelings and behaviours^[6] that may be the root of emotional distress and suffering. By gaining insight and awareness into patterns of discomfort, dissatisfaction or suffering,^[7] psychotherapy supports a process of change, helping a person take control of how they respond to challenging situations using effective and healthy coping skills.

The Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia^[8] (PACFA) and the Australian Psychological Society (APS)^[9] are peak national bodies for accredited psychotherapists.

Practitioners offering Psychotherapy

verified

Desley Creedy

Desley Creedy Personal & Professional Development

5.00 (1)

Crows Nest, New South Wales, Australia

Online

In person

Counselling Psychotherapy

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verified

Trish Rossi

Templestowe, Victoria, Australia

Online

In person

Counselling Psychotherapy

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Benefits of psychotherapy

Psychotherapy offers benefits for a host of mental and emotional concerns.

Psychotherapies^[11] have been shown to be efficacious for a wide-range of psychiatric disorders, such as attention hyperactive deficit disorder, bipolar, depression and anxiety, trauma and stress-related disorders, personality disorders and eating disorders. This highlights the importance of these therapies in treating a myriad of conditions.

In a recently published study^[12] it was reported that psychotherapy is as effective as antidepressant medication in treating major depressive disorder.

Importantly, not everyone who receives psychotherapy therapy is diagnosed with a mental illness. This treatment modality can be helpful in a number of ways,^[13] for example:

Resolving conflict
Relieving stress and anxiety
Coping with major life events
Managing a physical health problem
Recovering from trauma or abuse
Improving poor sleep

Psychotherapy may also assist in relieving symptoms related to:

ADD/ADHD Alcohol and drug addiction Anorexia, bulimia and eating disorders Anxiety Behavioural issues Body dysmorphia Bullying Depression Insomnia and sleep disorders Loneliness Show all

What to expect from a psychotherapy session

A therapy session in Australia usually lasts for 50-60 minutes,^[14] and can be conducted as an individual, family, couple or group sessions.^[15]

Your first psychotherapy session will typically involve a discussion with your therapist about you and your needs. The therapist will gather relevant information^[16] to try and understand your situation and personal psychological history. This will assist them in determining the best course of action for your treatment.

As psychotherapy is a two-way process, the interpersonal relationship between you and your therapist is key.^[17] It is, therefore, very important that you feel comfortable during your sessions, so asking questions is encouraged. A good fit with your therapist is crucial^[18] for effective treatment.

Should you decide to try psychotherapy, it is important to approach therapy with the right mindset^[19] so you can reap the most benefits. It is recommended that you stay honest and open^[20] with your therapist, and actively participate in discussions and decision-making. If at times you lack motivation or feel your progress is slow, remember that healing takes time and psychotherapy can be a long-term process.

You do not need a referral to see a psychologist or counsellor. In Australia, however, referral by a doctor specifically to a psychologist may entitle you to Medicare rebates^[21] for up to 10 one-on-one sessions. Counsellors are not included in the Medicare rebate^[22] scheme. To find a local psychotherapist, the following websites may be helpful: The Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia^[23] and Good Therapy Australia.^[24]

References

1. Psychotherapy. Mayo Clinic; 2023.

2. Psychotherapy. Healthdirect; [cited on 2024 Dec 3].

3. What Is Therapy? Psychology Today; [cited on 2024 Dec 3].

Frequently asked questions

What is psychotherapy, and what are some common types?

Psychotherapy refers to various therapeutic approaches, including cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and family therapy. These treatments are administered by counsellors, psychiatrists, or psychologists.

How does psychotherapy differ from counseling?

While counseling generally addresses shorter-term, surface-level issues, psychotherapy involves a more extensive exploration of a person's psychological history. It aims to understand deep-seated patterns of behavior contributing to emotional distress.

What is the historical background of psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy, also known as "talk therapy," traces its roots back to the ancient Greeks. They were the first to recognize the therapeutic value of using encouraging and consoling words to treat mental illness.

Who provides psychotherapy, and what is their role?

Psychotherapy is provided by trained professionals such as counsellors, psychiatrists, or psychologists. Their role is to guide individuals through a process of exploring thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that may be the root causes of emotional distress.

How does psychotherapy support change and growth?

Psychotherapy aims to help individuals gain insight and awareness into patterns of discomfort, dissatisfaction, or suffering. By understanding these patterns, individuals can develop effective coping skills and take control of their responses to challenging situations.

Is psychotherapy a long-term process?

Yes, psychotherapy typically involves a longer-term commitment compared to counseling. It delves deep into a person's psychological history to facilitate a thorough exploration and understanding of underlying behavioral patterns.