Psychologists (PhD or PsyD) provide talk therapy and psychological testing. Psychiatrists (MD or DO) are medical doctors who can prescribe medication and focus on biological factors. Some psychiatrists conduct individual therapy.

It varies based on the person and the nature of the problem.

Sessions are held weekly, though this may change depending on progress.

Psychologists are trained professionals who evaluate, diagnose, and treat social, emotional, relational, and behavioral issues using psychotherapy.

The first session is where the psychologist learns about your history, concerns, goals, and explains their approach.

Psychology is the science and practice of understanding human thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a social context. Applied psychologists work in the fields of counseling, clinical, and school psychology and help people of all ages improve the quality of their lives and circumstances. In addition to private practice in our community, psychologists also work in a wide variety of settings, including hospitals, mental health clinics, community agencies, universities and colleges, public and private schools, and the criminal justice system. Click on the Community Resources link above for access to local agencies. Psychologists specialize in the whole range of psychological services, including individual, couple, and family therapy as well as psychotherapy groups. In addition, psychologists provide psychological assessments and consultation to organizations, including businesses and schools.

These are two very related schools of thought in how to understand the mind and the powerful role it plays in determining our thinking, emotional life, desires, relationships, and behavioral choices. It is based on the idea that unconscious processes shape one’s way of being in the world, and that one of the sources of psychological distress is based upon these unknown processes. Another central tenet is that the way in which one conceptualizes the self and the way in which others are represented in the mind contribute to one’s happiness or distress. Psychoanalytic and psychodynamic therapy draw attention to these factors, along with the uniqueness of each person, to help lead the person to finding greater satisfaction in their work and in their relationships.

Because of the many misconceptions about psychotherapy, you may be reluctant to try it out. Even if you know the realities instead of the myths, you may feel nervous about trying it yourself. Overcoming the nervousness is worth it. That’s because any time your quality of life isn’t what you want it to be, psychotherapy can help.

Some people seek psychotherapy because they have felt depressed, anxious or angry for a long time. Others may want help for a chronic illness that is interfering with their emotional or physical well-being. Still others may have short-term problems they need help navigating.

Some may be going through a divorce, facing an “empty nest”, feeling overwhelmed by job dynamics, or grieving a family member's death.

Signs that you could benefit from therapy include:

• You feel an overwhelming, prolonged sense of helplessness and sadness.
• Your problems don't seem to get better despite your efforts and help from family and friends.
• You repeat old patterns of trying to solve the same problem, and things do not get better.
• You find it difficult to concentrate on work assignments or to carry out other everyday activities.
• You worry excessively, expect the worst or are constantly on edge.
• Your actions, such as drinking too much alcohol, using drugs or being aggressive, are harming you or others.

Reality: Many people have tried to solve their problems on their own for weeks, months, or even years before starting psychotherapy but have found that that it’s not enough. Deciding to start psychotherapy does not mean you’ve failed. There may be a biological component to some disorders, such as depression or panic attacks, which make it incredibly difficult to heal yourself. In reality, having the courage to reach out and admit you need help is a sign of strength rather than weakness — and the first step toward feeling better.