Psychotherapy

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Why it's done

By Mayo Clinic staff

Psychotherapy is one of many effective ways to treat a wide range of mental illnesses and life stressors.

When to consider psychotherapy
Psychotherapy may be used because:

  • It's your preferred treatment choice
  • You don't want to take psychiatric medications
  • You've tried other treatments and they haven't worked
  • Other treatments aren't appropriate for your situation — for instance, you can't tolerate the side effects from antidepressants
  • You want to experience emotional growth and healing
  • You're having a hard time overcoming negative moods and self-destructive behavior
  • You want to prevent a relapse of your condition after stopping other treatment

Conditions and issues psychotherapy may help
Conditions and problems that may benefit from psychotherapy include, but aren't limited to:

  • Grief
  • Anger
  • Abuse
  • Medical illnesses, such as diabetes
  • Relationship problems
  • Sleep disorders
  • Work problems
  • Sexual disorders
  • Depression
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Phobias
  • Eating disorders
  • Substance abuse disorders
  • Personality disorders

In severe cases, psychotherapy may be more effective when it's combined with other treatments, such as psychiatric medications.

MY00186

Sept. 3, 2008

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