About Psychotherapy

What is Psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is a collaborative process between you and your psychotherapist that can help solve problems, reduce emotional pain, increase self-awareness and promote growth and healing. The therapeutic relationship unfolds under a prescribed set of conditions, ground rules, and boundaries. This therapeutic framework makes possible a safe, secure environment that allows for open, honest communication between client and psychotherapist.

Psychotherapy – Risks and Benefits

While it has been repeatedly demonstrated that psychotherapy is of benefit for most people and in most situations, there is no guaranteed outcome.

Some possible risks might include: experiencing strong feelings of anger, frustration, sadness, fear, guilt, helplessness; experiencing uncomfortable levels of anxiety and/or depression; experiencing difficulties sleeping, making decisions, or with other people. There can also be unanticipated changes as a result of psychotherapy, such as leaving a job or ending a relationship.

Expectable benefits of psychotherapy can include: resolution of the specific concerns that brought you to psychotherapy; improved interpersonal relationships; enhanced work performance; lifting of depression; lessening of anxiety; and increased insight and understanding of your thoughts, feelings and behaviors.

Code of Ethics

The National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics is intended to serve as a guide to the everyday professional conduct of social workers. View the Code of Ethics on their website.