How To Prepare for Psychotherapy

If you’re struggling with your mental health, whether it’s low-level anxiety that never really goes away, obsessive behaviors you can’t shake, or a severe mental illness, psychotherapy can help.

As a board-certified psychiatrist, Dr. Ifeanyi Olele of Genesis Psychiatric Solutions offers psychotherapy services at his offices in Fairfax and Alexandria, Virginia, as well as in Washington, DC. 

You can also opt for his telepsychiatry option, which lets you receive psychotherapy in the comfort and privacy of your own home.

Psychotherapy basics

Psychotherapy is a general term for mental health treatment via talking through issues with a psychiatrist, psychologist, or other mental health professional. It’s commonly known as psychosocial therapy, talk therapy, counseling, or therapy.

The goal of psychotherapy is for you to become aware of and learn about moods, feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, and how to manage them using healthy coping skills. There are many different reasons to see a doctor like Dr. Olele for psychotherapy sessions.

Reasons to get psychotherapy

You might need psychotherapy to deal with life events, such the loss of a loved one or the fallout from an infidelity. A change in your work situation, the birth of a child, or even the aftermath of an assault can all be situations for which you need some help learning to cope.

Another reason to look into psychotherapy is if you suffer from a mental health condition that adversely affects your behavior and/or your life. This might be due to an anxiety, personality, or mood disorder, addiction, an eating disorder, or schizophrenia.

Preparing for psychotherapy

Getting ready for a psychotherapy appointment means being prepared for potential strong emotions and understanding that you are there on your terms. You don’t have to talk about anything you aren’t ready to discuss. 

But it’s just as important to recognize that psychotherapy works when you do talk about uncomfortable topics to get to the root causes of your feelings or behaviors. Remember that psychotherapy is a safe place, and Dr. Olele is here to help.

Make a list of things you want to get to the bottom of or learn how to deal with. Ask yourself what your goals are for psychotherapy, and share them with Dr. Olele. Also note any family history of mental illness. 

Then try to relax and know that you won’t resolve every issue in a single session. There’s no pressure, just compassionate help, and over time you may find you no longer need weekly sessions as you work through your issues and regain control over your life.

Dr. Olele is dedicated to providing for your mental health needs either in person or through telecommunications. If you’re interested in exploring what psychotherapy can do for you, get in touch with us by visiting our contact page.