Individual Therapy

What is Individual Therapy

Individual therapy is one type of psychotherapy in which a trained professional helps a single person work through personal issues they have been facing. It is an effective treatment for a variety of emotional difficulties and mental illnesses. Also known as talk therapy, it can help improve or control symptoms that influence an individual’s well-being.

How does Individual Therapy Work?

Therapy sessions give individuals the opportunity to confidentially talk through problems or situations with a trained professional. It does not necessarily make problems disappear, but it equips individuals with the tools needed to cope with them more appropriately.

This type of therapy may be used in conjunction with other types of mental and behavioral health treatment, such as family therapy or substance abuse counseling.

What to Expect from a Therapy Session

Individual therapy is useful for many types of situations that cause stress, anger, grief or conflict. In a comfortable, private setting, an individual and a therapist will explore many different important issues, including (but not limited to):

Expression of thoughts and emotions
Behavior patterns
Problem solving
Conflict resolution
Strengths and weaknesses

Individual therapy may be short-term (focusing on immediate issues) or long-term (delving into more complex problems). The number of sessions and the frequency of appointments depends on the individual’s situation and the recommendations of the therapist.

The exact way in which this therapy is implemented tends to vary depending on the issues in question, the practices of the therapist and the needs of the individual.

12.1%

receives mental health treatment, with 10.4% receiving medication and 3% receiving psychological therapy.

36.2%

For those with common mental health problems reported receiving treatment.

15%

Women are more likely than men to receive treatment for all mental health conditions