Psychotherapy is a treatment process designed to resolve personal problems, facilitate emotional healing, deepen self-knowledge, promote personal
growth, improve communication skills, and foster healthy relationships. This treatment process takes place in the context of a mutually respectful therapeutic relationship that evolves within an atmosphere of safety and acceptance.
People often consult a psychotherapist when they're feeling depressed, anxious, confused, or frustrated in their lives, and when their usual coping methods (for example: talking with friends, keeping busy) don't seem to be helping.
Anyone who feels motivated to learn more about his or her emotional processes and is willing to explore personal issues in order to make
life changes is a good candidate for psychotherapy. Back
Dr. Hutton's approach to psychotherapy combines elements of a number of therapeutic systems in which she has received training: experiential
therapy, psychodynamic therapy, Transactional Analysis, Gestalt Therapy, cognitive therapy, and client-centered therapy.
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In the initial session, Dr. Hutton gathers information about the individual's or couple's current concerns, current life circumstances, and
recent history. In the second and third sessions, individual life histories are obtained and Dr. Hutton begins giving feedback on the
psychological patterns that are emerging. When working with couples, she explains the Transactional Analysis framework she uses to help couples deal with
communication problems. She sometimes recommends psychological testing, primarily using the Myers-Briggs Personality Test as a means of exploring the
role of personality styles in developing healthy relationships. Back
It is always advisable to find a therapist who is credentialed, licensed and experienced. Although all licensed psychologists are trained to
deal with a wide range of psychological problems, some choose to specialize. So those people who believe their concerns are unusual are advised to discuss this
with the psychotherapist before making an appointment. It is also recommended that people spend a few minutes on the phone with a prospective therapist before
making an initial appointment. Beyond the issue of expertise, the most important element in successful therapy is the client's comfort level when talking with
the therapist. People naturally experience various degrees of anxiety about beginning therapy. If, after a phone call or initial session, you feel
increasingly comfortable about bringing up sensitive issues, then you are on the right track. If you find yourself feeling more cautious, consider interviewing
another therapist. Back