Individual Therapy (Counseling) is a joint and collaborative process between a therapist (counselor) and a person receiving therapy service (referred to as a client or patient). Common goals of therapy can be to change problematic and distressing thoughts and behaviors, while also inspiring improved personal satisfaction and quality of life. Individual therapy is referred to as counseling, therapy, psychotherapy, and talk therapy. Some different types of individual therapy include, but are not limited to, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral, Emotionally Focused, Interpersonal, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Systemic. Dr. Allemagne utilizes different therapy modalities based on the individual needs and presenting concerns of his patients.
Therapy can help people overcome obstacles to their well-being. It can increase positive feelings, such as compassion and self-esteem. People in therapy can learn skills for more effectively managing difficult situations, making healthy decisions, and reaching goals. Many find they enjoy the therapeutic journey of becoming more self-aware. Some people go to therapy for spiritual and self-growth.
It could be time to seek therapy if an issue causes distress or interferes with daily life. Distress can mean negative thoughts, feelings, behaviors, or even a bodily sensation such as pain or fatigue. It is important not to wait until symptoms become severe before going to therapy. It may be best to seek therapy if you are often unhappy or feel overwhelmed and hopeless about issues in your life. Therapy can also help if you cannot focus on work or school, experience addiction, or feel like hurting yourself or someone else.
Some people may avoid treatment, and there are many reasons for this. Some of these reasons include:
- Worry about the stigma that can come with mental health care
- Feelings of shame when speaking about past hurts
- Feeling weak by seeking help.
- Not wanting to acknowledge that anything is wrong
- Fear that discussions in treatment will not stay confidential
- Money concerns
However, statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) show mental health issues are common in the United States. In fact, 1 in 5 adults at any given time are likely affected; and, many believe the rates are higher. Some studies suggest 1 in every 2 individuals in the United States will be impacted at some point in their lives by a mental health issue either individually or through a friend or family member. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that major mental illness costs the U.S. at least $193 billion each year, and that is just in lost earnings. The Partnership for Workplace Mental Health and the American Psychiatric Foundation advise that it costs companies $44 billion in lost productivity due to untreated depression in the workforce.
It may help to remember that therapists are trained professionals who provide support and maintain confidentiality. Although the stigma surrounding mental health can still arise, more people are becoming comfortable with talking about their mental health options with trusted and caring professionals.
A trained therapist can help people make lifestyle changes. They can also help identify underlying causes of symptoms and provide strategies for changing unwanted thoughts and behaviors. Therapy can equip people with the skills to manage symptoms, reduce stress, and improve their quality of life. Dr. Allemagne invites you to make an appointment with him to discuss your concerns and begin exploring possibilities towards effective change and greater happiness and success.