Psychotherapy

Also known as: talk therapy.

What is psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is a form of therapy and counseling that is conducted by a mental health professional, for example a psychologist, a licensed mental health counselor, social worker or a psychiatrist. The therapy is typically founded upon an open dialogue between the therapist and the patient, though medications can be recommended and prescribed prescribing physician at times during the treatment.

What happens during the treatment?

Typically, the patient will meet with the mental health professional in a relaxed, open environment where they can speak freely. The therapist will give the patient an outlet to speak and guide the conversation with questions or assignments. The therapist may also give you assignments to work on between appointments.
 

Is any special preparation needed?

No special preparation is needed for this treatment.
 

What are the risk factors?

There are very few risks to psychotherapy, and the reality is that most people can benefit from having someone to speak with about their problems. Most people who undergo psychotherapy find benefit from the sessions.

Reviewed by: Marisa Azaret, PsyD

This page was last updated on: January 20, 2022 02:32 PM

Weekly Support Programs

​F.O.C.U.S. Program

This program is currently suspended due to the pandemic. 8 week program. This group therapy program is designed for children ages 7 to 17 with behavioral issues, including but not limited to ADHD. The weekly sessions teach innovative techniques to assist children with managing feelings, developing organization skills, maximizing their concentration abilities and socialization skills. Learn more.

Social Skills Group

This program is currently suspended due to the pandemic. 8 week program. Children and teens ages 7 to 17 are invited to join this small discussion group to learn how to make, cultivate and maintain friendships. Participants will learn basic conversational skills, and discuss the use of appropriate humor, how to electronically connect with others, and how to manage disagreements. Learn more.

Calm Kids

8 week program. Calm Kids is a weekly group therapy course designed to teach children strategies on how to take control over anxiety symptoms. Children will learn how to cope with fears and worries, identify anxiety triggers, how to relax the mind and body and maximize their self-confidence. Learn more.

Pain Management Group

8 week program. This program is specifically designed to empower children ages 7-18 through complex sensory experiences. Each session is created to teach participants evidenced-based techniques to better manage pain and improve overall quality of life. Learn more.

Teen Sleep Group

The six-week program is designed for teens ages 12 to 17 experiencing difficulties related to sleep, including daytime sleepiness, trouble waking in the morning, difficulty falling asleep and waking in the middle of the night. The goal of this group is to give teens the tools and strategies they need in order to get more sleep and better quality sleep. Learn more.

Wise Girls Worksop

Wise Girls Workshop is a six-session, primary prevention program, facilitated by the Department of Psychology and thoughtfully designed to empower middle school students ages 11-14 through evidenced-based practices. Each session is 60 minutes long and will include 8-10 young female participants.

Learn more.