Individual therapy is a treatment process where a person and a therapist work together to resolve mental health concerns and find health & effective mental wellness solutions. The goal of individual therapy, (psychotherapy or talk therapy) is to improve a person’s quality of life.
With the help of a trained professional, patients can get help to increase positive feelings, build self-esteem, learn how to handle stressful situations, and reach other mental health goals. As you can see, there is a wide range of goals that Dr. Cawkwell at PBC Psychiatry can help you achieve.
When to seek help?
If you or a loved one is experiencing distress that is interfering with daily life, it is time to reach out to PBC Psychiatry for help. Distress can be pervasive negative thoughts, negative feelings, behavioral changes, or even pain or fatigue. It is important not to wait until symptoms are unbearable. There is no reason for you to suffer in silence and possibly increase the damage that poor mental health can cause.
If you are feeling unhappy, overwhelmed, or hopeless and these feelings are not allowing you to focus on work or school or even enjoy time with friends or family, therapy is a proven solution. If you are experiencing addiction or thoughts of hurting yourself and others, they are signs of mental disorders that are treatable with the help of an experienced professional.
Why do some people avoid therapy?
Avoiding therapy because of an outside force is a mistake that many people make. They are left to suffer without support based on someone else’s erroneous feelings or beliefs. Other times, the fear of reaching out or the stigma around mental health is the culprit. Seeking help is never the wrong decision. In fact, it is estimated that mental health issues affect 1 in 5 adults in the United States.
Therapists like Dr. Cawkwell provide confidential mental health solutions to many people in a virtual setting. With telehealth appointments, you can get help in any place you feel comfortable and safe. Many mental health issues can make it seem as if you are alone in this journey, but mental health professionals are dedicated to helping people work through painful or uncomfortable issues.
During treatment, Dr. Cawkwell can identify underlying causes of symptoms and provide strategies for changing your thoughts and behaviors. Treatment may include one-on-one talk therapy sessions, medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination. You and Dr. Cawkwell, together, will find an effective treatment plan that works for you.
What can individualized therapy help with?
Therapy can help treat mental, emotional, physical, and behavioral issues. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Anxiety & Stress
- Eating issues
- Anger
- Relationship or marriage challenges
- Addiction
- Abuse
- Family issues
- Insomnia
- Sexuality
What To Expect During Individual Therapy?
Your initial therapy session is often a chance for you to share your concerns and for Dr. Cawkwell to listen and gather information. He will ask you questions about your physical and emotional health history and the current reasons for reaching out for help. After the session, it is common to have some ‘homework’ such as gathering more information or writing down thoughts and feelings to bring to a second session. With a better understanding of your needs, Dr. Cawkwell can better advise you or even prescribe medication to help you.
The first session of therapy often focuses on gathering information. A therapist speaks with the person in treatment about their past physical, mental, and emotional health. They also discuss the concerns bringing the person to therapy. It can take a few sessions for a therapist to have a good understanding of the situation. Only then can they address concerns and determine the best course of action. Cooperation between you and your therapist can help you get the most out of treatment. Being honest and open will allow Dr. Cawkwell to find the best plan of action and address each concern. New information allows him to adjust the treatment plan and learn more about how to help you. Telehealth sessions make it easy to meet with Dr. Cawkwell and each patient has direct communication with a dedicated mental health professional. If you are ready to start your mental health journey, contact PBC Psychiatry today.
