What is psychotherapy?
According to the American Psychological Association, psychotherapy is “a collaborative treatment based on the relationship between an individual and a psychologist [or therapist]. A psychologist [or therapist] provides a supportive environment that allows patients to talk openly with someone who is objective, neutral, and nonjudgmental.”
Some individuals seek therapy to help with diagnosable mental health disorders, like depression or anxiety. Some seek therapy to help with life stressors, transitions, or relationship difficulties among innumerable other reasons.
Psychologists and therapists may recommend different treatment approaches based on the needs of their patient. There are many treatment approaches, like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, or Psychodynamic Therapy. Some treatments focus on an individual, whereas others focus on couples, families, or even groups.
Psychotherapy providers train in graduate school programs and hold doctoral degrees (PhD, PsyD, EdD).
What is pharmacotherapy?
Pharmacotherapy is the use of medications to treat disorders. Individuals with diagnosable mental health disorders may choose to treat their disorder using medications. For example, individuals with depression or anxiety may take antidepressant medications to help manage their mental health.
Pharmacotherapy providers hold medical degrees (MD, DO) or advanced nursing credentials.
What is multimodal treatment?
Multimodal treatment is the combination of multiple treatment approaches to treat a condition or disorder. In mental healthcare, this often looks like a combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy.
How do I know if I (or a friend, loved one…) would benefit from mental health treatment?
The American Psychological Association recommends considering seeking support if an individual is experiencing difficulties that are causing distress and interfering with their lives. Children, adolescents, and adults may all benefit from support for their mental health.
Signs that it may be helpful to seek support for mental health include (but are not limited to!):
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in sleep
- Withdrawing from others or having difficulty in relationships
- Difficulty managing your emotions
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Experiencing uncontrollable anxious thoughts
- Loss of interest in activities or prolonged sadness
- Difficulty processing grief
- Using substances (alcohol, drugs) to cope or more
- Experiencing a traumatic event
- Experiencing problems at school, work, or home
- Upcoming major life transition
How can Waypoint help?
Waypoint Wellness Center is home to a team of talented mental healthcare professionals who are ready to support you! The clinical team at Waypoint includes psychologists, counselors, psychiatrists, and nurse practitioners. Clinicians at Waypoint use evidence-based practices to provide assessment and treatment services to individuals across the lifespan.