Alexandra KordosiCounselling Psychologist / Psychotherapist (MA.,BSc.)

When is Psychotherapy useful?

Each one of us faces the same basic human conditions and givens in life, regardless of age, sex, ethnic origin, religious, cultural and social background. We all need to deal with the particularities and demands of each developmental stage of life. Nevertheless, each one of us, experiences life in a unique way, having subjective experiences, subjective joys and sorrows, strengths and vulnerabilities. Experiences considered significant for one individual may be insignificant for another. Similarly, the difficulties and problems of one individual may be totally managable for someone else.

What is therefore important for the individual is to discover his own meaning and expression in life and to move towards the unique direction he / she considers satisfactory for himself / herself. Of course, this does not mean that we should do whatever we want in life without regard for others! Forming and sustaining significant relationships, can be considered one of the primary goals in life. In order however to succeed in such goal, the individual needs foremost to be in a good relationship with himself. This enables the individual to relate intimately with others – an ability of substantially giving and receiving in relations with others (in family relations, in partnership, in professional life etc.).

Psychotherapy from a professional psychologist / psychotherapist can be useful in cases where someone feels static and isolated with his / her issues. Such issues may involve:

• Feelings of depression, sadness or loneliness
• Feelings of anger or envy
• Feelings of emptiness and disappointment
• Low self-esteem and negative self-image
• Anxiety, Panic Attacks, Phobias and persistent negative thoughts
• Systematic tiredness, sleep difficulties or other physical symptoms that do not have a clear medical cause (headaches, stomachaches, allergies, abdominal /            intestinal problems, autoimmune diseases etc.)
• Practical and psychological difficulties due to medical / psychiatric or other chronic               condition or disability
• Psychological difficulties due to financial stress / poverty
• Traumatic experiences (past or present) that negatively influence present life
• Communication difficulties and relationship  / intimacy problems
• Difficulties in implementing life-goals and projects
• Grief after loss of a loved one
• Family problems (in relations with parents, spouse, children, the extended family)
• Child or adolescent developmental difficulties / disorders
• Eating and weight disorders
• Addictions (substance use, gambling, Internet)
• Sexual problems

Many of these issues appear and surpass in all of us at some point in life - the variety and fluctuations of emotions and mood is an integral aspect of human existence. However, if you experience systematically and persistently for a long period of time, one or more of the above symptoms, you should consider the possibility of asking for professional psychological support. Give yourself and your significant others, a chance to better the quality of your life.