PSYCHOTHERAPY
Psychotherapy is an umbrella term for many different approaches to mental health. Depending upon the training and philosophy of your therapist, your therapy experience will vary greatly.
Linda Bender views psychotherapy as guided exploration and growth. The therapist serves as the catalyst - aiding the growth process without determining its outcome. This differs from the customary definition of psychotherapy which is the treatment of emotional problems. The traditional definition reflects the attitude among many that one who seeks psychotherapy lacks the strength and self-sufficiency to deal with difficult experiences and emotions.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity for discovery, for clarity, for choice, for healing. For most of us who can't always see the forest for the trees, a trained professional can provide insight, guidance, support and new skills for future use.
However, responsibility for personal growth remains with the client, not the therapist. The content and direction of psychotherapy and/or counseling is determined by what each client wants for herself or himself. If these wants are unclear, the first priority is to help you identify and clarify your needs.