What is Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy involves a rich experience of self-discovery and self-understanding which, when combined with a supportive and empathic relationship with the therapist, enables healing and growth. It examines the whole life of the individual (past, present and future), but is ultimately about making healing, long-lasting and life-enhancing changes.
Psychotherapy can embrace a range of treatment modalities including the analytically-oriented therapies, cognitive behaviour therapy and relational therapy. Because it is not limited to one type of treatment, it offers flexibility and can be tailored to the unique needs of each individual.
What is the Difference between Psychotherapy and Counselling?
Although there is considerable overlap between psychotherapy and counselling, counselling is generally applied to problems arising in relation to specific situations or life experiences. It is suitable for those dealing with relatively minor or temporary issues. Psychotherapy relates to those deeper structures of personality or self which have caused long-term distress or which the individual wishes to change.
Who can be helped by Psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is suitable for those who are motivated to make changes in their lives; in the way they feel, the way they experience the world around them, and in the way they relate to others. Circumstances and struggles which may lead someone to seek psychotherapy include:
- Depression and feelings of emptiness or loneliness
- Low self esteem and lack of self-confidence
- Excessive sensitivity to life's ups and downs
- Disordered eating patterns such as overeating, undereating or binge eating
- Anxiety, stress and excessive worry
- Identity issues
- Relationship difficulties - either in one's private life or at work
- Major life change such as a relationship breakup or loss
- A history of abuse or maltreatment
- Ongoing symptoms resulting from a major life trauma
- Difficulty in manifesting one's goals and dreams
- Feelings of confusion and lack of direction
- A desire for personal growth and better self-understanding
- Wanting to live a happier and more fulfilling life
Rebates
Dr Thomas is registered with most private health funds and is also a Medicare approved provider of psychological services. A referral and diagnosis from your General Practicioner is essential if you wish to claim a medicare rebate (session limits apply). If you do not wish to claim a rebate no referral is necessary.