- Psychotherapy is the use of psychological techniques by a trained therapist to treat emotional and psychological problems.
- It is a planned and professional treatment, not simple advice or sympathy.
- Its aim is to change maladaptive behaviour, reduce distress, and resolve inner conflicts.
- It involves a voluntary relationship between therapist and client to solve psychological problems.
- The therapeutic relationship (alliance) is the special bond between therapist and client.
- This relationship is based on trust, empathy, unconditional positive regard, and confidentiality.
Definitions [2]
Definition: Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is a voluntary relationship between the one seeking treatment, or the client, and the one who treats, or the therapist.
Definition: Therapeutic Relationship / Therapeutic Alliance
The special relationship between the client and the therapist is known as the therapeutic relationship or alliance.
Key Points
Key Points: Concept of Psychotherapy
Key Points: Forms of Psychotherapy
- Forms: Psychotherapy includes group, family, marital, client-centred, and behaviour therapies.
- Types: Three main types — psychodynamic, behaviour, and existential therapy.
- Cause: Psychodynamic—inner conflicts; Behaviour—faulty learning; Existential—lack of life meaning.
- Treatment: Psychodynamic uses free association; Behaviour changes faulty behaviour; Existential supports self-growth.
- Clinical formulation: Explains the client’s problem and guides treatment.
Key Points: Rehabilitation of the Mentally Ill
- Treatment of mental disorders includes reducing symptoms and improving the patient’s quality of life and level of functioning.
- In severe disorders like schizophrenia, symptom reduction alone is not enough; rehabilitation is needed to improve daily functioning.
- The aim of rehabilitation is to make the patient self-sufficient and a productive member of society.
- Rehabilitation includes occupational therapy, social skills training, cognitive retraining, and vocational training.
- These therapies help improve work discipline, interpersonal skills, cognitive abilities, and job-related skills.
