ABOUT PSYCHOTHERAPY

Choosing a Therapist

Types of Therapists

Risks and Benefits of Therapy

Process of Therapy

Confidentiality

Ending Therapy

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Risks and benefits of psychotherapy

What are the risks of therapy?

Often psychotherapy requires recalling and talking about unpleasant aspects of your history or your present situation, which can bring up uncomfortable feelings such as sadness, anger, or shame. Although it may be necessary to talk about painful or embarrassing subjects, the role of the therapist is to be nonjudgmental and understanding.

What benefits can I expect?

A number of benefits are available from participating in psychotherapy. Often it is helpful just to know that someone understands. Therapy can provide a fresh perspective on a difficult problem or point you in the direction of a solution. The benefits you obtain from therapy depend on how well you use the process and put into practice what you learn. The benefits available thorough therapy include:

• Attaining a better understanding of yourself and your personal goals and values, developing skills for improving your relationships
  
  
• Overcoming specific problems such as depression or binge eating
  
  
• Finding resolution to the issues or concerns that led you to seek therapy

However, there are no guarantees about what therapy will do for you. Some people find that participating in psychotherapy results in changes that were not expected or intended at the outset.

Dr. Joyce Nash, PhD    (650) 329-1000