Does talk therapy with a psychologist really work????

Question

Have any of u been to a psychologist for ur problems or disroders...does it work =/??? Im going on fridday for the first time.... my normal doctor says i probably have anxiety and a lot of ppl tell me i might also have depression...I do feel lonely. sad. angry .worried or stressed on most days..... Does talking actually help??? and when do they usually provide meds(just in case it doesnt work)??

Answer 1

First off, congratulations on taking a positive step for yourself. I am a psychologist, and I have been to psychologists. I've seen it work with my patients, and it was certainly helpful for me as well. There are many forms of talk therapy--some of which work very well, some of which are less effective. But all forms are dependent upon how honest YOU are about what's occurring for you, and about following through and really trying to do some of the things that the therapist suggests outside of your sessions.

What usually happens is that the psychologist or psychotherapist does an assessment and diagnosis during the first session with you. Then s/he will develop a treatment plan to help you understand the issues that you are going to work on together. Part of that treatment plan may include referrals to various resources, for example, to a psych MD for an evaluation for medication. Usually, fairly early on in your treatment, the therapist will give you a referral to a psych MD for medication evaluation if that is appropriate. As an alternate, if it seems that you may not need meds at first, the therapist may treat you without meds. If it seems as if you are not making much progress, s/he may refer you later for a medication evaluation. It sounds to me, just from the little that you've told me, that you would do well with an evaluation for medication right at the start because you are describing many symptoms of depression. The most effective treatment for depressive disorders is a combination of medications and "talk therapy".

Good luck!

Answer 2

Talk therapy with a psychologist really does work ... providing you make the effort to go - to be honest - to do your homework - AND - if you WANT TO make progress toward feeling better.

Most of us at one point or another get stuck in a rut in how we do things - the trouble is that what we are doing doesn't really work for us, no matter how many times we try. Working with a mental health professional (counselor, psychologist or psychiatrist ) we will pay attention to what we do and why we do it.......learning new ways that will work better, and we will be less frustrated / fearful / sad / stressed / angry and lonely.

Only the psychiatrist has the ability to prescribe medication, as he is a Medical Doctor. Just because you are in "therapy" working on your issues, does not mean you will also need medication. Do the work, your feelings will adjust with time.

Answer 3

Going for professional help is a good thing to do. No shame. I recommend you ask the psych about CBT, cognitive behavioral therapy. You work on your thinking. It has been proven to be very effective, as effective as meds much of the time but longer lasting. There's a very good article in a recent issue of Forbes magazine, plus some good books. David Burns "Feeling Good" is outstanding, and if you're inclined to read, it's worth the money considering therapy costs 125 dollars or so and the book is like $10. Good luck!!!! You can get better. Have hope!

Answer 4

Yes it does work. It can be awkward at first, but things get so much better. Just be honest with them. They are only there to help you. I found that it also helps you discover yourself better and it makes you a better person all around. You don't get as angry with people when you get in fights, etc. You learn how to control your feelings. I hope everything works out for you! You can take meds and go to counseling at the same time. I do. I think they both work equally. Not one will treat depression, you have to have both.

Answer 5

Yes it works, you just have to be truthful and open up to him/her. Believe it or not a lot of people go and see a psychologist sometime in their life. It's nothing to be ashamed about. If their techniques don't work very well then they may want to put you on a medication; but I wouldn't jump to that right away. They really have to get to know you first.Best Wishes and hope you feel better.

Answer 6

Yes it helps. But you have to give it time. You won't magically get better after one session. If you want meds, you will have to see your medical doctor or a psychiatrist, because psychologists can't write perscriptions. He or she will probably give you little excersizes and assignments to help accomplish the necessary goals. Make sure to do them, and be open to what he or she has to say. Good luck!

Answer 7

A good therapist can do you a world of good! Psychologists can not prescribe medication, however. A psychiatrist or your regular doctor will have to do that. But talk to the therapist about it, see if he or she recommends it. Good luck! You're doing the right thing.

Answer 8

That's great to hear glad you are going. and yes it works great for a lot of people. It can take a long time but please do not give up it will help you in the long term. If you need meds they will sort all of that out. good luck lisa

Answer 9

Talk therapy is very successful. I work with people in groups in that aspect and even in groups people are able to grow and develop as a person. Good luck.

Answer 10

if you want ti to work it will, if youa re honest and discuss waht is wrong and listen to the doctors ideas it will help you, you haev to want to be helped first.
ive been depressed for years and have been to a psych