Individual Therapy

What are the Goals of Individual Therapy?

Many people around the world live with substance abuse or mental illness. These complex conditions require comprehensive treatment.

The most significant goal of individual therapy is to provide clients with a safe space to meet with their therapist in private, discuss any sensitive topics, and monitor their treatment process. One-on-one counseling sessions can increase coping skills and improve quality of life. Other goals include:

• Helping people to process complex emotions
• Identifying destructive beliefs and behaviors
• Reducing harmful behaviors, including substance use
• Improving self-esteem
• Improving communication
• Improving relationships

Individual therapy is an important part of helping people cope with symptoms and learn new skills to prevent relapse. People may participate in therapy to address a wide range of issues, including:

• Anxiety
• Eating disorders
• Relationship issues
• Trauma
• Stress
• Family problems
• Insomnia
• Anger
• Gender or sexuality issues

People may also participate in individual therapy during treatment for a mental illness. People with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, depression, and other forms of mental illness can benefit from talk therapy.

Talk therapy can help people with complex conditions. However, it is also helpful for anyone experiencing stress, grief, challenges, or life changes. Talk therapy gives people the space and skills to improve their functioning and quality of life.

What Happens During One-on-One Therapy Sessions?

Many people believe that therapy resembles what they see on TV or in movies. They may think a therapist is the “expert” and leads therapy sessions.

However, real-world therapy is different from what you see in the media. Therapists and clients work together to identify needs, set goals, and work toward them. The therapist creates a safe environment for clients to share and process their feelings.

During the first therapy session, your therapist will gather information to help them develop a treatment plan. Your therapist may ask questions about your daily life and what brought you to therapy. They will also begin gaining your trust and establishing a mutual relationship so you feel comfortable opening up to them.

You may begin the therapy process once you have identified what issue you want to address. Talk therapy involves a lot of talking and sharing. This can feel challenging for some people. However, it is important to remember that your therapist is there to help and will not judge you.

During personal substance abuse therapy sessions, you will discuss your personal growth and learn new coping skills to reduce stress, manage change, and improve your functioning. You may work with a therapist for a short period or continue to see them long-term.

The therapeutic process is unique to each person. You will work with your therapist to address your needs. All the information you share with your therapist will be confidential.

Start Therapy Now

If you or a loved one need support for mental health or addiction, you are not alone. Reach out to the caring specialists at Invigorate Health now to learn about our substance abuse and mental health therapy programs in Los Angeles.