Psychotherapy with a Psychiatrist
Seeking Psychotherapy With a Psychiatrist
Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is a psychiatric treatment that helps address a wide range of mental and emotional issues, including depression, grief and loss, addiction, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and panic disorder. There are numerous specific types of psychotherapy, and they may be used independently or in conjunction with psychiatric medications. With all types of psychotherapy, you will discuss personal thoughts and feelings as well as your personal and family history, so it is essential that you feel comfortable with your provider.
Why should you see a psychiatrist for psychotherapy?
There are different types of mental healthcare providers who may offer psychotherapy. Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MDs or DOs) who specialize in mental health and may diagnose specific disorders and prescribe medications. Seeking psychotherapy with a psychiatrist may be beneficial because your psychiatrist will have in-depth knowledge of your medical history and use of medication. Additionally, psychiatrists bring a depth of knowledge to therapy sessions with a background in neurobiology, general medicine, and behavioral science.
How does psychotherapy work?
During psychotherapy, your psychiatrist will serve as a neutral, objective, and nonjudgmental listener as you discuss different problems, behaviors, and thought patterns. However, therapy doesn’t simply involve you talking the entire time. You and your psychiatrist will have a dialogue in which you collaboratively design and execute a treatment plan, which will typically include strategies for you to practice between sessions. Psychotherapy is a journey, on which you may encounter challenges and stumbling blocks, but your psychiatrist will be there to help you navigate toward a more positive outlook and better mental health.
The specific structure of your therapy sessions may vary, depending on the type of psychotherapy you receive. These may include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) – This type of therapy addresses negative thinking patterns that may arise due to trauma-related disorders, depression, or anxiety. CBT aims to recognize and reroute these negative thought patterns to improve daily functioning.
- Psychodynamic therapy – In psychodynamic therapy, patients may dig into childhood experiences and unconscious thoughts and behaviors to become more aware of repetitive thoughts and negative behaviors, so they can then change those patterns.
- Interpersonal therapy – Interpersonal therapy is a short-term treatment that helps work through more immediate issues, such as unresolved grief, role changes in one’s personal or professional life, or conflicts with loved ones. It focuses mostly on identifying healthy ways to express emotions and improve communication.
Is psychotherapy effective?
The efficacy of psychotherapy is well-researched, and studies have shown that most people who undergo psychotherapy will see symptom relief and improved function in their daily lives. These changes are accompanied by changes in the brain. Imaging techniques have shown physical changes in the brain because of psychotherapy, and these changes are much like those that result from the use of medication. Following therapy, patients may experience fewer medical problems, increased work satisfaction, fewer sick days, and an overall improvement in mood and quality of life.
How long do you need to attend therapy?
There is no number of therapy sessions that will be right for every patient. Psychotherapy is different for everyone, so it’s important to follow your psychiatrist’s guidance and recommendations. In some cases, short-term therapy with just a handful of sessions may be appropriate. For other people, there are complex issues that need to be addressed, and that can only happen over the course of several months or even years of sessions.
If you are seeking psychiatric care in Alabama, Integrated Behavioral Health can connect you with the right provider for your needs. Fill out our New Patient Appointment Request form to begin your healing journey with us.