Does seeing a Therapist, Psychologist actually help?

Question

I wondering If I need to see one to help deal with low self-esteem and depression issues.

Answer 1

Like any other type of doctor, yes a good therapist can do wonders. A bad one can't hurt you physically, but can lower your faith in the process enough that you stop going or stop making progress.

It's really just common sense. We all need someone to talk to about the things that upset or burden us. We talk to our friends, our lovers, our family, whoever. And those people may want very much to help us but they aren't always the best people to do so. First of all, they all have their own problems, and aren't always available or in a proper mood when we need them. Secondly, we may feel ashamed of some of our feelings or actions and don't feel that we can tell them the whole truth. Thirdly, they are already a part of our lives and have affection for us. So they might not be able or willing to tell us when we're not making much sense. So much of pain and angst is wrapped up in feelings with no logical basis. It's purely emotional. Which doesn't make it fell any less real, but makes it really hard to explain away.

A good therapist will always be there at the scheduled time, to sit and listen to you and talk to you with nothing but simple, fact driven concern for your well-being. They are trained in how our minds work, how we punish ourselves for past mistakes, how we cover up the things that have hurt us with destructive behaviors. Where most of our friends would only worry about the symptoms they see on the surface, a therapist is trained to go beyond that, to the root cause and help heal you from the inside out.

And when it comes down to it, who of us couldn't use someone to listen to us an hour a week, and just let us get out the things that are bothering us? Therapy can be a long process, but the benefits are just amazing. Freedom from the shackles of depression and self loathing, coping mechanisms for dealing with difficult romantic and family relationships, basic help in understanding why you do the things you do. We spend our lives becoming good at things. Playing sports, understanding difficult technical concepts for our jobs, fixing things. But too many people will try and tell you it’s a waste of time to become good and understanding your own mind. Don’t listen to them. There is nothing more important and rewarding than understanding yourself, and learning how to get the best our of yourself.

Medication - the RIGHT medication, that is - can work wonders, but no good doctor will give you anti depressants without wanting you to see a therapist, as well. And medications are NOT for everyone. For lots of people, the side effects are as bad or worse then the initial symptoms. Natural healing, without drugs is always the best alternative. But people tend to want a fast fix, and think that meds can replace therapy alltogether. They can't. They are made to go together . They are two sides of the same coin - trying to get you well.

Good luck.

Answer 2

Seeing A Therapist

Answer 3

Therapists usually ask you to tell them something of your past, rather like hypnotists, except of course that you would not be going under. I really wouldn't advise any medication without professional help. It's best to see a therapist or a psychologist first. You have listed things that your friend may be suffering from, and you may be right, but a good therapist will sort them out. I was in a 10-year relationship, and learned that the person with whom I was with was not who I thought he was, so I saw a counsellor as I was very traumatised. I went to my GP first, however, who offered me anti-depressants, which I refused. The counsellor was very helpful and made me see things in a different llight. For example, she told me to make a list of all that is good in my life, and of all the people that are both inspirational and kind. I did this and, as she suggested, all the negativity I was dealing with gradually faded. A word of advice, and please don't take this the wrong way. You say that it affects his ability to deal with others, you included. Try asking him how he is feeling when he's around you, because he may feel that you are not being understanding enough, yet doesn't want to hurt your feelings by saying so. You need to find out, though, because you may help him if you change your attitude, if you and he jointly decide that a change of attitude is necessary I wish you both all the luck in the world, and I hope your friend comes through it soon. I didn't see your previous question, but having read in someone else's answer that you cheated on him, his inability to deal with you is hardly surprising. You won't like this, but have you thought that it could even be the root cause of his problems? You're clearly sorry about what you did, because you seem very concerned, but is that out of friendship or out of guilt, I wonder.....?

Answer 4

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
Does seeing a Therapist, Psychologist actually help?
I wondering If I need to see one to help deal with low self-esteem and depression issues.

Answer 5

A therapist can surely help in being a 'third eye' to understand, confront issues, particularly re low self esteem. This is still marginal, I feel, without a consultation with a psychologist and his/her accompanying prescription of meds.

Answer 6

Yes, sweetie, seeing a therapist absolutely does help. However, you will need to shop around for the right person for you. Not every therapist is "good" at what she/he does, as with any other profession. With hope, you are able to "shop around" for what you need. My therapist, who I have seen off and on for the past 6 years, has been a complete Godsend. Take care of yourself, as you are the only one who can. Namaste!

Answer 7

Yes, I've been going to one (its a 12 session plan, I'm in my 5th) and has really helped to understand the way this crazy world works!
You have to be sure he is not going to confuse you, thats why a good research is really important. You may also look for some spiritual imputs, as well ( not necessarily religious but spiritual)

Good luck!

Answer 8

I have been seeing a psychiatrist twice a month for 10 years and have made no progress at all. But, if I miss a session, things get worse. Does it help = Yes - Tons - but never enough. You must also take medication for the rest of your life or you relapse. It is like the yo-yo dieter. Loses weight and then gains more than lost over and over and over. Quit your pills for depression/anxiety and you relapse faster than you can blink your eyes.

Answer 9

Yes therapy does work if I didnt have it I'de surely melt! not to say I'm A therapy junky, but It helps me have a better understanding on lifes situations, like self esteem, because I to suffer from that.

Answer 10

Absolutely. But you need the right person. Sometimes people will see a doctor whose values and ways of doing things doesn't go with what your values and path to wellness are. Be flexible with the person you choose but be willing to change if necessary.