There is a growing awareness among the general population about the importance of going to the psychologist. Any reason is opportune to go to therapy and it is a fact that is conceived naturally. However, there are still some prejudices due to ignorance about the real work of psychologists. You may be wary of the ways in which this professional can help you or, on the contrary, you think that they are going to intercede to solve your problems. In any case, you will be creating false expectations.
The psychologist studies the mind and its impact on human behavior and, therefore, is the professional who accompanies the patient in this process. Psychology is a science based on empirical evidence whose study establishes the most appropriate treatment based on the needs of each patient. These professionals will provide you with an explanation of certain aspects of your behavior that you may not understand, but it is obvious that they do not work miracles or change the course of your life. That's why it's important that you know what to expect before going to therapy for the first time.
A psychologist is the professional who has the precise tools to take care of the mental health of his patients. To do this, it will take into account your personal context, your emotions and your life experiences. It is essential that the patient take a collaborative attitude and open up to explain why he has been brought to therapy, without fear of feeling judged or misunderstood, so that the psychologist decides what are the best mechanisms to ensure his well-being.
Among the multiple functions of clinical psychology, are the evaluation and intervention in the face of possible mental health problems. Psychologists usually rely on tests applied to the patient or on diagnostic manuals to intervene in mental, relational or emotional disorders. There are, however, psychologists specialized in all kinds of fields, such as children's or sports, who validate any circumstance of their patients and promote a healthy mental balance and the prevention of these disorders, so it is never a bad time to go to therapy.
In the context of a therapy, the psychologist has an advantage over the patient who, although he does not share his problems, is capable, thanks to his position and his trajectory, of seeing and explaining to you what is happening to you. By understanding how your mind works, this professional will offer you help to implement the necessary changes in your behavior and you can better deal with your discomfort or dissatisfaction in any area of your life. He can accompany you in the process, even if he is not going to solve the problems for you. Never expect a psychologist to give you advice, make decisions for you, or tell you what to do.
