In 1879, Wilhelm Wundt opened the first scientific lab dedicated to the field of modern psychology. He conducted experiments that aimed to discover metrics like the speed of thought. But psychologists today go far beyond the laboratory in trying to help people. They address how we deal with problems in the real world, in our livings rooms and kitchens and bedrooms, not just in theoretical spaces. Psychologists and psychiatrists understand far more about the brain and mental health disorders than they did in the 19th century. Fortunately that means that people can expect to receive kind, expert, evidence-based psychological treatment from their counselors at Thriveworks.
At Thriveworks in Boulder, CO, therapy clients receive this kind of highly effective, specialized treatment from psychologists and other mental health providers. Psychotherapy has been shown to improve symptoms of a host of disorders like depression, anxiety, and OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder). Psychotherapy can also lead to lasting psychological and behavioral changes that you can benefit from for the duration of your life.
What Is the Difference Between a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist?
- A psychologist is a person highly trained in the field of psychology, usually holding a master’s degree, meaning they’ll have a PsyD or a PhD after their name. Thriveworks psychologists in Boulder, CO are licensed to provide psychotherapy to their clients.
- Psychiatrists are doctors who earned an MD after their name when they graduated from medical school. They are licensed to prescribe medications like antidepressants or mood stabilizers.
- Psychotherapist is an umbrella term for a mental health provider who conducts talk therapy sessions with clients.
What Can I Expect from Psychotherapy Sessions from a Psychologist?
Psychologists at Thriveworks in Boulder, CO are trained in different techniques to help their clients meet their therapy goals. These tools of the trade include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Self-monitoring
- Socratic dialogue
- Affect regulation
- Cognitive restructuring
- Relapse management
- Behavioral activation
- Mindfulness
- Exposure
- Relaxation
- Psychoeducation
- Self-compassion
- Writing therapy
The techniques that your psychologist uses may depend on their overall approach to psychology. For instance, psychologists can draw from their expertise in different psychological perspectives like humanistic therapy, cognitive therapy, or behavior therapy.
How Can I Tell It’s Time to See a Psychologist?
Sometimes we are so caught up in our own psychological issues and life dramas that it can take a caring friend or family member to point out when they think we could use some help. Other times your gut tells you that you need to seek counseling. You can also see a therapist as a preventative measure, to help ward off mental health disruptions or crises in the future. Clients arrive at Thriveworks in Boulder, CO looking for support for all sorts of issues, including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Sleep disorders
- Obsessions or compulsions
- Manias
- Family conflicts
- Trauma
- Grief
- Substance abuse
- Sex addiction
- Phobias
- Overachieving
- Control issues
- Anger management
- Caregiver burnout
- Stress
If you’re experiencing more severe symptoms that may require additional support, your Thriveworks psychologist may refer you to a Thriveworks psychiatrist who can evaluate your potential medication needs. All these appointments can be held online at your convenience and are usually covered by health insurance.
How Do I Get the Most Out of Psychotherapy at Thriveworks?
Many clients ask their therapists how they can get the most out of their collaborative psychological sessions. Everyone wants the time spent in therapy to be productive, solution-focused, and insightful. Here are some ways to make the most of your sessions with your psychologist or other Thriveworks mental health provider:
- Give your therapist frequent feedback. They want to know what’s working and what can be modified to serve you better.
- Think about therapy as a working alliance, not as a hierarchy.
- Set goals for your therapy sessions.
- Prioritize therapy.
- Be honest. The more you reveal, the better equipped your therapist is to help you.
- Schedule your sessions at times when you know you can relax and focus. Sometimes it can help to book online sessions at Thriveworks so you can meet your counselor at your convenience from the comfort of your home.
- Take notes.
- Stay positive. Your mental health is a marathon, not a sprint. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see changes right away. But with the right help, you will eventually see positive changes.
Schedule Your Session with a Thriveworks Psychologist
When you call the Thriveworks office during our extended hours in Boulder, CO, you will reach a human, not a voicemail, and get scheduled to see your psychologist in as few as 24-48 hours. Our counselors also like to be available to their clients whenever they’re needed. One of the benefits of becoming a Thriveworks client is email and phone access to your top-rated, licensed provider between sessions. We also offer free educational resources like e-books and videos.
Reach out today and get ready to meet the Thriveworks psychologist in Boulder, CO who can help support you on your mental health journey. We look forward to taking your call!
