Psychotherapy

What is Psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy is the main technique by which professional therapists and clinical psychiatrists aim to help patients adopt more positive thought patterns and fight against depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses. Psychotherapy does not include any medication, but in some instances, it may be beneficial to supplement treatment with certain medications in order to foster healthier brain chemistry. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most common type of therapy which focuses on a few core principles of psychotherapy:

– Psychological problems are patterns of thinking and behaving that have been learned over time
– Psychological problems stem from faulty and destructive thought patterns
– People suffering from mental illness can learn how to cope and reverse these patterns

These principles are dependent on learning new ways of thinking and coping with negative thoughts and feelings. These principles are proven by research and demonstrate why therapy is the most effective technique for treating mental illness. CBT aims to help change your thought patterns for the better. This is achieved by learning to recognize the negative thoughts when they come and address them in a new and more realistic manner. Your psychiatrist will always aim to help teach you how to understand these thoughts and use problem-solving skills to better cope with them. Patients may also be given homework assignments where you will challenge your depressive or anxious tendencies. Combining CBT with exposure therapy can help cultivate confidence, a better mood, and give you the tools to succeed.

Our Services

Our goal is to give patients the tools they need to change thought patterns that they have become accustomed to and to put new skills into practice. At Harbor Psychiatry & Mental Health we are committed to collaborative therapeutic support and offer therapy alone or in conjunction with medication, depending on each patient’s indications. Our highly trained and experienced team includes doctoral-level psychologists from a variety of clinical and cultural backgrounds, that are dedicated to helping patients achieve their goals in relationships, careers, and personal growth. When medication is taken in conjunction with therapy, the beneficial effects are much greater than medication or therapy alone.

About Harbor Psychiatry & Mental Health

We believe outstanding healthcare is delivered when we merge the science of medicine with the compassion of our hearts. We refer to this as “head and heart together,” inspiring constant improvement and lasting success.
Psychiatrists Orange County CA
Psychologists Orange County CA