What Is Psychotherapy? What Is It Used For?

Psychotherapy is a structured process carried out between the therapist and the client within the framework of a scientific method, aiming to understand and resolve the person’s psychological distress. 
It is a talk therapy process that aims to improve psychological distress through behavior-, thought-, and emotion-focused methods. It can be supported with or without medication. It addresses the biological, psychological, and social aspects of a person as a whole.

Psychotherapy aims to help a person get to know themselves, make sense of their emotions, change behavior patterns, and cope with life in a healthier way. Psychotherapy is not only about getting rid of problems, but actually a journey for a person to rediscover themselves. Psychotherapy is not just telling problems, but a professional support process to help a person understand themselves better, make peace with their emotions, and overcome blockages in their life. It is based on scientific methods and applied in a personalized way.  

Who Is Psychotherapy Suitable For? 

Everyone can benefit from psychotherapy. It is effective in many psychological and emotional difficulties such as anxiety disorders, panic attacks, trauma, relationship problems, sexual dysfunctions, relationship and marital problems, personality disorders (borderline, narcissistic, schizoid, etc.), childhood traumas and self-confidence problems, phobias and obsessions, addictions (cigarettes, alcohol, substances, technology), anger control, grief process, and depression. Psychotherapy is a valuable tool not only for those who are “patients,” but for anyone who wants to know themselves better. 

Thanks to the holistic approach, the focus is on root causes rather than symptoms. 

How Long Does Psychotherapy Last?

The duration varies depending on the person’s needs, the severity of the problem, and the type of therapy. While short-term therapies may last 8-12 sessions, in-depth work may take months or even years. What matters is that the person gives themselves and the process time. 

How Does Psychotherapy Work? 

The strengths of different schools are combined according to the client’s needs. For example: 

• In behavioral therapy, for example in phobias, it can be used with exposure techniques. 
• In cognitive therapy, negative thought patterns and distortions are changed. 
• In dynamic therapy, childhood experiences and unconscious processes are explored. 
• In existential therapy, deep themes such as the meaning of life, fear of death, uncertainty, responsibility, and loneliness are addressed. 

What Is The Difference Between Psychotherapy And Hypnotherapy? 

Psychotherapy provides insight and awareness at the conscious level. Hypnotherapy, on the other hand, accelerates change by accessing the unconscious. 
When both are applied together, lasting improvement may occur in a shorter time. 

What Is The Difference Between Psychotherapy And Medication Treatment? 

Medication treatment relieves symptoms by correcting chemical imbalances in the brain. Psychotherapy, however, goes to the root of problems, changes thought and behavior patterns, helps the person notice their emotions and regulate them, and strengthens the person’s inner resources. Both can also be used together and support each other. 

What Is The Difference Between A Psychotherapist And A Psychiatrist?

Psychiatrist: A medical doctor who can prescribe medication, make diagnoses, and provide medical treatment. 

Psychotherapist: Provides psychotherapy. They may be psychologists, psychiatrists, or specialists trained in this field. They work through talk therapy focusing on behavior change, maladaptive thought patterns, and emotion regulation. 

Does Psychotherapy Really Work? 

Yes. Scientific research shows that psychotherapy is effective for many psychological disorders. It helps the person understand themselves, regulate their emotions, improve their relationships, and look at life more positively. Therapy is a personalized journey, and its results are directly proportional to the person’s participation. 

Is Online Therapy As Effective As Face-To-Face Therapy? 

Yes, online therapy can be as effective as face-to-face therapy. It is especially a practical and safe option for those who have transportation difficulties, work intensively, or during periods such as pandemics. What matters is the secure bond established with the therapist and regular continuity. 

Do I Have To Tell Everything In Therapy? 

No, you do not have to. The therapy process progresses at your own pace. As you feel trust and become ready, your sharing increases. The therapist never judges you; their aim is to understand and support you.