*WHAT IS PSYCHOTHERAPY?
A significant number of individuals have found relief from anxiety, depression and other emotional difficulties through
psychotherapy. Yet, for some it’s difficult to initiate the process or remain in psychotherapy.
Why do people consider using psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is a partnership between an individual and a therapist trained to assist participants understand their
feelings and aide in changing their behavior. The National Institute of Mental Health suggested that about one-third of
adults in the U.S. experience emotional or substance abuse problems. Nearly, 25 percent of the adult population
experiences at some point from depression or anxiety.
Individuals often consider psychotherapy under the following circumstances:
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They feel an overwhelming and prolonged sense of sadness and helplessness, and they lack hope in their
lives.
Their emotional difficulties make it hard for them to function from day to day (e.g., they are unable to
concentrate on assignments and their task performance suffers as a result).
Their actions are harmful to themselves or to others (e.g., they drink too much and become overly
aggressive).
They are troubled by emotional difficulties facing family members or close friends.
How effective is psychotherapy?
Results suggest that psychotherapy can assist in decreasing participants’ depression and anxiety and related symptoms
such as pain, fatigue and nausea. Evidence supports the notion that most people who have at least several sessions of
psychotherapy are far better off than untreated individuals with emotional problems. One study proposed that
approximately 50 percent of participants displayed noticeable improvement after eight sessions.
What’s my responsibility as a participant in psychotherapy?
All psychotherapy is a two-way process that works especially well when participants and
their therapist communicates openly. Favorable outcomes have been reported when the therapist and participant agree
early about what the major problems are and how psychotherapy can help. Both the therapist and participant have
responsibilities in establishing and maintaining a good working relationship. The more specific you can be with your
therapist about your expectations and share any concerns that may arise, the greater the likelihood for fostering and
developing a positive therapeutic relationship. Additionally, psychotherapy works best when you attend all scheduled
sessions and give some forethought to what you want to discuss during each session.
How can I evaluate if therapy is working well?
After a few sessions, it’s generally a good sign if you feel the experience is truly a joint effort and good rapport is
enjoyed between you and the therapist. However, if this doesn’t occur, you should be open enough with your therapist
to discuss this matter. Obviously, success in reaching your primary goals should be a major factor in deciding when
your psychotherapy should end. The bottom line is that for those participants who are willing to work in close
partnership with their therapists they often find relief from their emotional distress and move towards leading
productive and fulfilling lives.
If you’re interested in scheduling a Student Wellness Program (SWP) appointment to consult with a therapist please
call 732-235-5933 (day and evening appointments are available).
University Behavioral HealthCare
Student Wellness Program
220 Old New Brunswick Road, Suite #104
Piscataway, NJ 08855
* Adapted from: APA Help Center (2004). How to find help through psychotherapy. American Psychological
Association. Washington, DC.