By Connie Sears


Nobody will argue the fact that the pressures and demands of modern life sometimes make it difficult to cope. In recent years much has been done to educate the public on the importance of mental health. A psychological problem is not an embarrassment and it is most certainly not a sign of weakness. Many people could benefit from professional help but they are too scared to seek such help. In San Francisco psychotherapy has benefited many people.

Many people use this term as a collective name for various techniques and therapies that re employed by psychologists and psychiatrists. The focus is on assisting the patient to learn how to analyze his own feelings, emotions, thoughts and actions. He has to get to know himself and the complex thought patterns that govern his behavior. Thereafter the therapist can move towards teaching the patient to cope when faced with difficulties.

The results achieved by talking therapy have been the subject of many studies and remarkable successes have been noted. Many mental conditions such as depression, eating disorders, addictions such as drug abuse and alcoholism as well as potentially dangerous conditions such as schizophrenia have been improved. In some cases therapy forms only one part of the holistic treatment program.

Not all people that seek help from therapists actually suffer from a recognized mental disorder. Many patients simply need help to cope. Therapists can help them to deal with life changing situations such as divorce or the death of a loved one. People that seek alternative solutions to insomnia also benefit, as do many others that simply need some guidance on how to manage the pressures of life.

The main problem with therapy is that the prognosis is only good if the patient cooperates fully. It is also important that patients understand that they must to expect miracle cures. Treatment can require many sessions and the progress made is really dependent upon the efforts made by the patient. The therapist cannot effect a cure. The real work has to be done by the patient.

There are no indications that therapy by a qualified and experienced practitioner has ever caused harm to anybody. It is true, however, that many conditions that manifest as so called nervous problems have their roots in undiagnosed disease. It is therefore advisable to undertake therapy only after seeing a general practitioner for a check up. Many doctors are also able to suggest the most suitable therapist for the specific circumstances and needs.

When choosing a therapist it is important to understand the treatment process. It may take a long time and the patient must be ready to embark upon this journey. The cost involved should also be discussed before commencing therapy. Some medical aid funds will pay for certain types of therapy but others do not.

In advanced societies such as San Francisco psychotherapy has long been recognized as a normal and important component of the health system. People develop mental conditions and they need help in the same way they would need help if they developed a physical disease. In this day and age there really should not be negative feelings about the science of psychology and the treatments offered by professionals.



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