Individual Therapy

Individual therapy is about insight and change.

People seek therapy for a variety of reasons. Some come because of emotional symptoms such as anxiety or depression that are causing psychological distress; many come because of clearly identified problems, but there is an inability to move away. Everyone comes because of the need to seek a better quality of life.

There is not a “one size fits all” approach to therapy. Just as a doctor needs to make a thorough physical examination of a patient before recommending treatment, so a therapist needs to do thorough case histories in order to better understand the various aspects to a symptom, problem or situation. Trust and openness are therefore vital components to a therapeutic relationship. The therapist needs to be empathic and understanding and the client needs to work with whatever issues might arise in the process. For this there needs to be clearly defined boundaries and confidentiality.

Individual therapy might take many forms, depending on the clinical assessment and the therapists centre of training. Central to the process is mutual respect and a willingness to work with a process of healing. Insight is a powerful tool of change and change is a powerful tool of healing. The dynamic nature of therapy means that destructive choices become options not compulsions, living on autopilot becomes uncomfortable. Therapy aims to provide alternative options to outmoded behaviours and provide a safe environment where healing might take place.

• Healing and change take place on many dimensions.
• There is the individual internal emotional healing where hurts and emotional trauma might cause blocks to self worth and understanding.
• There is the social aspect where interaction with others might be hampered by inappropriate behaviour or relationships.
• There is the economic aspect where lack of confidence or poor career choices could hamper advancement and reaching professional potential.
•  Finally there is the spiritual aspect of exploring meaning and purpose, aspects so deeply connected to hope.
• The process of therapy should open the way for a more fulfilled life and courageous choices.

Information by Wendy Hay (Clinical Psychologist)