Understanding The Role Of A Psychologist
There are many reasons to take the first step of booking a consultation with a psychologist, but some people are hesitant due to not fully understanding the role of psychologists. Psychologists are highly-trained healthcare professionals with a remit to help their patients understand and cope with mental health problems, neurodevelopmental disorders and life issues. They will take a patient-centred approach and work with you as an individual to determine the best way to move forward with the issue you are seeking support for.
Common Issues Treated By A Psychologist
Psychologists diagnose and treat a wide range of problems including mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety. They also work with those trying to overcome addictions, those coming to terms with a chronic health condition and those looking for ways to cope with an acute bout of illness. You may find it helpful to see a psychologist if you are grieving, going through a period of change or would like to learn how to better cope with stressful situations. If you think you have a neurodevelopmental disorder, such as ADHD, you can seek assessment and diagnosis from a psychologist. After diagnosis, they can support you to move forward in a positive way with the right tools to succeed in life. Additionally, if you are having relationship issues of any sort, a psychologist can help you identify what is at the root of the issues you are experiencing and support you in making tough decisions about the future.
Treatment Approaches Used By Psychologists
Psychologists use a range of treatment approaches, and they will recommend an approach for you based on the reason you are seeing them and your goal from treatment. Talking therapy is a commonly used method of treatment, and there are several styles of talking therapy, such as psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural. The overall aim of talking therapy is to support you to identify causes or triggers for problematic behaviours or feelings and work to come up with solutions that help you move forward. Hypnosis is another treatment approach utilised by some psychologists, and there is evidence to suggest this treatment can be effective in those experiencing anxiety and long-term pain. If your psychologist thinks you would benefit from medication, such as antidepressants, they will work with other healthcare professionals, such as a psychiatrist or GP, to put this treatment in place for you.
If you think you would benefit from seeing a psychologist, schedule an initial consultation. This doesn't commit you to several months of treatment, but it does give you the opportunity to explore in more detail what future appointments would look like and it can help to set expectations.
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