What it is
Psychotherapy, although primarily a talk-based therapy, can refer to a variety of treatments. It can help people improve and maintain their mental health, overcome emotional problems, deal with past trauma, as well as treat psychiatric disorders. Psychotherapy can be used to treat conditions such as:
Anxiety disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), phobias, panic disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar disorder Addictions, such as alcoholism, drug dependence or compulsive gambling
Eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia
You do not need to be diagnosed with a mental illness to benefit from psychotherapy. Psychotherapy can also help you:
Resolve conflicts with your partner or someone else in your life
Relieve anxiety or stress due to work or other situations
Cope with major life changes, such as divorce, the death of a loved one or the loss of a job
Learn to manage unhealthy reactions, such as road rage or passive-aggressive behavior
Sleep better, if you have trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep (insomnia)
Recover from physical or sexual abuse or witnessing violence
