After years of research, there is now a wide range of effective treatments for various psychological problems and disorders. However, there is still some stigma and misinformation surrounding the figure of the psychologist/psychotherapist. Many people have preconceived ideas about what it means to see a psychologist/psychotherapist and hesitate to go to therapy.

For decades, the idea that the best solution for psychological problems is pharmacological treatment has prevailed. It is common to find people with symptoms of anxiety or depression who could benefit greatly from psychological treatment (without side effects) medicated to relieve symptoms that, in the absence of medication, will recur. However, it is the route that seems to be the most widespread, it is easy and fast. Taking a pill seems to be easier and more accepted than seeing a psychologist regularly, but it is not always the best option.

Through extensive research, psychological therapy has been shown to be the treatment of choice for the vast majority of psychological disorders, i.e. it has been shown to be more effective than pharmacological treatment alone. In addition, it has no side effects and the results persist over time.

Medication is useful and necessary in some severe cases, always as a complement to psychological therapy. There are certain disorders that require a combined treatment of pharmacological therapy and psychological therapy. However, psychological therapy must always be present.

Through therapy, the person learns strategies to solve their problems and overcome obstacles, becomes stronger and acquires greater competence for life. On the other hand, medication only temporarily alleviates the most pronounced symptoms, but when it is withdrawn, in the absence of psychological treatment, what caused us to suffer from the disorder remains there and over time the relapse rate is higher.

Therefore, the best option is to go to a psychologist/psychotherapist, who will evaluate the need to see a psychiatrist.

When to go to a psychologist/psychotherapist?

The reasons that may lead a person to benefit from psychotherapy are vast. At certain times in life, the person may develop feelings, thoughts or behaviors that are detrimental to their overall well-being and that limit their development and progress in a particular area of their life.

The psychologist/psychotherapist is a professional specialized in understanding human behavior, who directs all his knowledge to help others overcome these difficulties.

Sometimes we find ourselves in difficult situations that we don't know how to solve and that affects our happiness. Sometimes it's hard to find the solutions and tools we need. The first step to regaining your well-being and happiness is to become aware of the need to seek help and take the step of seeing a psychologist/psychotherapist.

The benefits offered by psychological therapy

Therapy has great uses and benefits for the person both in dealing with psychological problems and as personal development.

The benefits of psychological therapy are numerous:

• • Increases personal self-awareness;
  • Improves the quality of life;
  • Increases personal, social and family well-being;
  • Increases relaxation and intensifies positive emotions;
  • Negative emotions decrease (anxiety, sadness, anger, irritability, etc.);
  • Promotes a more flexible and positive thinking;
  • Improves personal and family relationships;
  • Increases self-control and emotional regulation;
  • Increases self-esteem and strengthens self-concept;
  • Improves problem and conflict resolution;
  • Helps to overcome obstacles and fears;
  • Promotes adaptation and positive coping;
  • Increases resilience;
  • Reduces pain;

Psychotherapy is the best path to recovery and personal empowerment.