Who Should See a Psychologist?

Many events and situations in our lives present significant challenges, and sometimes those challenges require professional support. Psychologists are committed to helping people improve their well-being and deal with problems effectively.

Often, the first visit to a psychologist is in response to a family, personal, or career crisis. However, people work with psychologists for many reasons - they may have aspirations related to their personal and/or career development and ask a psychologist for assistance in achieving these goals.

Will Psychotherapy Help Me?

According to a research summary from the Stanford University School of Medicine, some of psychotherapy can effectively decrease patients' depression, anxiety, and related symptoms - such as pain, fatigue, and nausea. Research increasingly supports the idea that emotional and physical health are closely linked and that psychotherapy can improve a person's overall health.

There is convincing evidence that most people who have at least several sessions of psychotherapy are far better off than individuals with emotional difficulties who are untreated. One major study showed that 50 percent of patients noticeably improved after eight sessions, while 75 percent of individuals in therapy improved by the end of 6 months.

How Will I Know If the Therapy Is Working?

As you begin therapy, you should establish clear goals with your psychologist. You might be trying to overcome feelings of hopelessness associated with depression or control a fear that is disrupting your daily life. Remember, certain goals require more time to reach than others. You and your psychologist should decide at what point you may expect to begin to see progress.

People often feel a wide variety of emotions during psychotherapy. Some qualms about therapy that people may have result from their having difficulty discussing painful and troubling experiences. When you begin to feel relief or hope, it can actually be a positive sign indicating that you are starting to explore your thoughts and behavior.

What Does the PAA do?

• Provides public information about psychology
• Sponsors professional development activities for psychologists
• Publishes newsletter for members
• Operates province-wide referral service to psychologists

What Does the CAP do?

• Stands for The College of Alberta Psychologists
• The Mandate of the College of Alberta Psychologists is to serve the interests of the public, and guide the profession of psychology.
• Is the regulatory and disciplinary body for psychologists.
• Ensures standards of practice
• Licenses psychologists