In contrast to what many people believe, psychotherapy is not only for “crazy” people or people that are “weak”. Psychotherapy is indeed an effective way of helping people who suffer from mental disorders but, contrary to popular belief (stigma?), psychotherapy is an effective way of assisting people with a wide range of psychological needs such as effective handling of extreme stress, coping with a difficult supervisor at work, effective management of conflict, communications skills et cetera. Moreover, an increasing number of people are consulting with psychologists for the purpose of personal growth, increasing their self- awareness and self-knowledge, and thereby optimising their sense of satisfaction with life and their level of functioning in general.
-
BENEFITS
Studies conducted by the Medical Research Council of South Africa estimate that about one third of South Africans are likely to suffer from mental health problems in their lifetime. Having problems of a psychological nature is therefore not uncommon. As a result, a lot of work has been done by psychological researchers and practitioners across the globe so that psychologists can today effectively help people whoare living with the burden of psychological problems.
-
MY APPROACH
Psychotherapy for adults are usually conducted in the form of a series of individual consultations with a psychologist. During the first session or two I usually take the time to gain a good and deep understanding of the problem. In some cases I also make use of psychological tests to improve and enrich this understanding. In general I share my findings with my clients and reach an agreement with them on the understanding of the problem. Once this has been done, the client and I are ready to plan and set goals for a healing (or growing) journey together. Besides all the planning and goal setting, my relationship with my client however remains paramount. Our therapeutic relationship should be the space where the client can just “be him / herself” without judgement or conditions of worth. It is the discoveries that are made in this space that enablechange and growth.
-
WHO CAN BENEFIT
As mentioned above, people consult with psychologists for a variety of reasons ranging from personal growth and dealing with life events to treatment of mental health problems.
Common reasons for adults to consult with psychologists include the following amongst others:
- Adjustment after Life Changes
- Stress and Stressful Life Events
- Occupational Problems
- Bereavement
- Living with Chronic Illness
- Anxiety (some symptoms include worrying, heart palpitations, heart racing, sweatiness, difficultywith concentration and memory, flushes, insomnia, loss of interest, loss of appetite, stomach problemschest pressure, fatique)
- Panic Attacks
- Specific Fears (or phobias)
- Trauma
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Eating Problems
- Body Image Related Problems
- Physical Symptoms with Psychological Causes
- Relationship Problems
- Divorce
- Physical or Emotional Abuse
- Blended Families
- Feelings of Loneliness, Hopelessness or Worthlessness
- Self-Esteem and Self Confidence
- Personal Growth
- Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Bipolar Disorder
- Severe Psychiatric Disorders
- Alcohol and Substance Abuse and Other Addiction Problems
For more information or if you would like to book an appointment please contact me on 083 444 3817 or email: roedi@roedinolte.co.za