What is Psychotherapy? Psychotherapy is a powerful, time-honored and proven method of helping people change the way they feel and manage their lives. Therapy is the practice of talking things through with a skilled and trusted professional who, by using a variety of techniques, can help clients make positive changes in their lives. It is a healing method based upon both the science of psychology and the skills of understanding, teaching, supporting, and confronting. In therapy, it is important for clients to be self-aware and open but for most people, this is difficult. Feelings of shame hinder self-awareness and openness. To be successful, the therapist must support the client and avoid shaming and judging. Over time, by openly and honestly talking about feelings, the client learns to trust that the therapist will be able to provide understanding and support even while discussing behavior about which the client and/or therapist may disapprove. Psychotherapy is confidential and private. No information about therapy sessions can be released to anyone without client permission. There are legal exceptions to confidentiality. These exceptions can be explained in more detailed by a therapist. Effective therapy moves at the client's individual pace. A therapist knows how to time interventions according to a client's readiness. Together, client and therapist decide the frequency of sessions and when it is time to end the therapy. Human beings have the amazing ability to control or alter the course of their lives. Furthermore, we are biologically programmed to control and change our fate most effectively when we discuss our feelings with a healing person. This is why the effects of talking to another person are most profound than the effects of talking to ourselves, especially when the other person can listen skillfully and respond empathically. Psychotherapists use the skills and knowledge of psychology. The power of healing relationships between client and therapist grows over time. Research shows that with trained, empathic and experienced therapists, people can make great improvements in their personal, emotional, occupational and interpersonal lives. In fact, millions of people have benefited from psychotherapy. Solving problems in therapy can prevent many of the social tragedies of our time including depression, domestic violence, child abuse, school failure, substance abuse and suicide.