Counseling or psychotherapy at a mental health clinic is generally aimed at helping clients understand the stress or problems they are facing. It helps individuals gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their thoughts, and their emotions. Why do they feel the way they do? It’s like slowly unraveling the knots in the mind, one at a time. Some people may have unresolved issues from the past that they've forgotten, but they still linger deep within their subconscious, causing ongoing distress or unhappiness in their lives without knowing the root cause. Gaining a profound understanding of oneself, letting go of past issues, can help lead to a more fulfilling and happy life. It enables one to manage life better, solve problems, and respond effectively to various situations. Consulting a psychiatrist is one way to help manage and cope with these challenges.

Typically, each counseling session lasts about 45-60 minutes, and the number of sessions needed depends on the severity of the client’s issue. Psychotherapy can be done individually or in a group, with several different therapeutic approaches. Examples include:

• Supportive Psychotherapy
• Interpersonal Psychotherapy
• Cognitive Behavior Therapy
• Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy
• Relaxation Therapy
• Problem Solving Therapy
• Behavioral Therapy

In addition, counseling can also include skills training in various areas to promote understanding and the development of new skills. This allows clients to express themselves more appropriately. Examples include Social Skills Training and Communication Skills Training.

People have varying abilities to cope with challenges and situations. If today you are feeling distressed or facing mental health issues, seeking counseling or psychotherapy with a psychiatrist or psychologist is another option for taking care of your mental well-being, just as you would for your physical health. This process can help you navigate through crises, understand yourself better, and find ways to manage problems, leading to a happier and more fulfilling life.