Psychotherapy is a general term used to describe a form of treatment that is based on “talking work” done with a therapist. The aim is to relieve distress by discussing and expressing feelings; to help change attitudes, behavior and habits that may be unhelpful; and to promote more constructive and adaptive ways of coping.
Individual vs. couple, family and group therapy
Family therapy is focused on changing the way families interact. It aims to increase understanding and improve communication among family members. It does so without placing blame on any one person. Family therapy is generally used when the family system is seen as contributing to one family member’s difficulties (such as a child or adolescent’s).
It can be used when one family member’s difficulties are influencing other family members, and help them cope and adjust to the situation. Both the “identified client” (the person identified as having the problem) and the other family member(s) can benefit from this kind of therapy.
Who can Psychotherapy benefit?
People go to psychotherapists to discuss the problems they have identified. They may get therapy one-on-one or as part of a couple, family or group. There is scientific research proving the effectiveness of both medication and psychotherapy to treat mental health problems, as well as proof of their effectiveness when used together.