Before discussing what psychotherapy is, a moment about what it’s not.
Psychotherapy, or therapy, is not being told what you should do. It is not like therapy in movies or tv shows. It’s not a quick fix, or a guaranteed solution. It’s not something that only “crazy people” need.
Therapy is a process and a relationship. It can include:
- skill-building, to reduce symptoms using positive coping skills
- relationship-mending, by providing a confidential and safe place to express strong emotions and discuss problems, to develop better communication skills
- insight building – as the past actions and reactions from your history are explored, it can result in recognition of dysfunctional patterns of behavior and emotional responses, helping you make better decisions to improve your emotional health and well being.
- trauma reduction – past experiences can stay with you for years, as disturbing memories and emotions that can be triggered and disrupt your present life. Some kinds of therapy can help reduce and resolve disturbing emotions related to those memories to the point that they are no longer disruptive.
- life changing – it’s possible to use therapy to change your life’s direction, to more positive and meaningful paths and goals
Marriage and family therapists have a specific scope of practice. If you would like information about the education and training needed to be an MFT, here is a FAQ: https://www.aamft.org/About_AAMFT/About_Marriage_and_Family_Therapists.aspx