Individual Counseling

Individual Counseling Q & A

What is individual counseling?

Individual counseling refers to the traditional type of therapy in which you meet with a therapist one-on-one. This type of therapy focuses solely on your mental health needs and helps you reach your goals. 

When might I need individual counseling?

Individual counseling is a good choice for dealing with nearly every type of problem you might face. Some people seek individual counseling when they’re dealing with major life challenges such as losing a job, the death of a loved one, or breaking up with their partner.

You may also benefit from individual counseling if you have symptoms that don’t improve. For example, you may have difficulty sleeping, have low self-esteem, feel like you worry all the time, or feel like you’re stuck and can’t move forward in life.

Many people seek individual counseling for mental health disorders, such as:

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Anger management

• Bipolar disorder

• Eating disorders

• Addiction

• Phobias

• Chronic stress

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) 

Parents often schedule individual counseling to help them deal with parenting issues, family challenges, or relationship conflict. Some want to learn how to manage their child’s mental health or developmental disorder. After spending time in individual counseling, they may then decide to have family or couples counseling. 

What type of therapy will I have during individual counseling?

One of the benefits of individual counseling is that you can fully explore your thoughts, feelings, emotions, and behaviors in a confidential environment. During individual counseling, your therapist may use one of many possible counseling approaches. 

After talking with you about your diagnosis and personal goals, your therapist recommends the approach that’s a good fit for you and your goals.

These are a few examples of the many types of therapy used during individuals counseling:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy

• Dialectical behavior therapy

• Psychodynamic therapy

• Interpersonal psychotherapy

• Acceptance and commitment therapy

• Trauma-focused therapy

• Solution-focused therapy

No matter which type of therapy you have, individual therapy helps you gain insight into the roadblocks you face, identify negative thinking processes, become more self-aware, and learn skills that allow you to deal with your challenges and reach your goals.

To schedule individual therapy or to learn more about how therapy can help you, call High Desert Psychological Services or book an appointment online today.