Psychotherapy is an alternative approach to treating mental disorders; instead of using medical means such as opioids and other prescription drugs, a patient visits a therapist on a routine basis for an allotted amount of time or even indefinitely depending on a patient’s needs. September 25th is National Psychotherapy day; this national holiday was created in 2012 in the effort to promote therapy and reduce the stigma people may hold towards therapy. Also called talk therapy, psychotherapy is a natural, safe, and effective way to help people cope with or heal a broad variety of mental illnesses or emotional difficulties. The use of medication for such mental disorders may block out or provide a “quick fix” solution, but research has shown that 75% of people that receive therapy show positive improvements in emotions and behavior(1).
…research has shown that 75% of people that receive therapy show positive improvements in emotions and behavior…
Brain imaging technology has aided researchers in seeing the physical effect of receiving therapy (1). Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (ITP), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Psychoanalysis Therapy, and Supportive therapy are just a few different types of therapies. Many can be done in combination. To observe this holiday many wear turquoise, share therapy effectiveness research, donate money to support low funding counseling centers and share Moments of Meaning .
To learn more about psychotherapy visit American Psychiatric Association.
