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ABOUT THERAPY

 Does Psychotherapy Work?

While helpful to many, participation in psychotherapy does not offer any guarantees.  Typically however, most people can expect to see improvements if willing to do the work. Some problems resolve rather quickly, while others take more time to understand and work through. When beginning therapy, it is not uncommon for people to experience some short-term improvement or symptom relief right away, however long lasting change is usually achieved over time with a greater period of effort and commitment.

According to Consumer Reports (Nov. 1995) People Benefit Substantially From Psychotherapy    

Based on 4,100 people who responded to a Consumer Reports survey concerning the effectiveness of psychotherapy:

   Close to 90% of respondents reported managing life better after psychotherapy.

   Among those individuals who started out feeling "very poor", 54% reported that

            treatment made things "a lot better", and another one third answered that

            it made things "somewhat better".

   Psychotherapy treatment lasting longer than six months was more effective than

            shorter therapies.  Depending on you particular needs and goals,

            the amount of time you are in therapy may be much shorter or longer.

   The study reported no difference in effectiveness between participating in

            psychotherapy without taking medication and participarting in psychotherapy

            plus taking medication. There are some problems however, for which a

            person may decide to consider medication as an additional approach. 

            In this situation, Dr. McCullagh can refer you to a psychiatrist  if available,

            or will consult with your primary care physician.

The reader should note that there are many studies in the area of mental health and  psychotherapy effectiveness, some of which would support, and others which would challenge the statements above.  However, unlike most research in the field, what makes the Consumer Reports study rather unique, is the fact that they do not accept advertising, and are completely independent of the mental health, medical, and insurance industries.  This study is considered unbiased in this way, greatly enhancing its credibility.

On Finding A Therapist 

Finding a therapist with whom you feel comfortable is extremely important to a successful outcome.  While some people are fortunate in finding a "good match" in the first therapist they meet, others may need to shop around a bit before finding someone who is right for them.  During this initial process, it is important to persevere and not become easily discouraged. Even if it takes a little time, most people eventually find a professional with whom they can work very well, enhancing the likelihood of a positive experience with good results.

When am I finished?

The length of time people choose to spend in therapy varies from person to person.  A therapist will often make recommendations based on an ongoing assessment of your particular needs and goals.  However, how long you are in therapy is really up to you.

It is often the client who knows best as to when the work of therapy is approaching an end. If you begin to feel ready to terminate services, it is helpful to share this with your therapist, so he/ she can assist you in having a positive ending.  By establishing that therapy will soon be completed, this allows for some time to review your progress and the work you have done, as well as discuss future goals you may have and possible ways to pursue these.   It is not unusual for some people to experience endings as difficult or uncomfortable, however, those who are able to finish therapy in a "planned way" are often glad they did so.  It is always possible to return at a later date if a person wishes to continue to work on a previous issue in greater depth, or if a new need arises.

 To schedule an appointment

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