Who is a psychotherapist?
A psychotherapist is a specialist who helps people better understand their emotions, thoughts, behaviour and relationships, as well as overcome psychological difficulties and challenging life situations. Psychotherapy is a process based on conversation and therapeutic methods that takes place in a safe and professional environment. It can help people understand the underlying causes of their difficulties, recognise their inner resources and find new ways of coping with challenging situations.
Psychotherapy can be helpful not only when a person is experiencing significant psychological difficulties, but also when they want to better understand themselves, their emotions and patterns of relating to others. The therapeutic approach is tailored to each person’s individual situation, needs and goals.
When is it worth seeking help from a psychotherapist?
You do not have to wait until difficulties become overwhelming. You can consult a psychotherapist when you feel that your usual ways of coping are no longer enough or when you want to better understand what is happening in your life.
Psychotherapy may be helpful if you are experiencing:
- Anxiety and persistent worry – difficulty relaxing, excessive worrying or inner tension;
- Low mood and depressive feelings – prolonged sadness, loss of interest, feelings of helplessness or lack of motivation;
- Emotional difficulties – difficulty understanding or regulating your emotions;
- Relationship difficulties – conflicts, recurring relationship patterns, or difficulties forming and maintaining relationships;
- Self-esteem and identity issues – insecurity, self-doubt or difficulty understanding your own needs;
- Life crises and changes – separation, loss, professional or other significant life changes;
- The effects of psychological trauma;
- Psychosomatic symptoms, when emotional factors may be connected with physical wellbeing.
Seeking professional help is a normal part of taking care of your emotional and psychological wellbeing. The aim of therapy is not to provide ready-made answers, but to work together with a specialist to better understand your experiences and find more appropriate ways of dealing with current difficulties.
Why choose FORTEMED psychotherapy consultations?
At FORTEMED, psychotherapy consultations are provided in a safe, respectful and trusting environment, where patients can openly discuss matters that are important to them. The therapeutic process is adapted to each patient’s individual experience, life situation and goals.
Our specialist integrates psychodynamic, supportive, mentalisation-based and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) approaches, selecting the methods that best suit each individual situation.
Kristina Lacombe
psychotherapist
A certified psychotherapist who counsels adults, children and adolescents, helping them with anxiety, depression, emotional and interpersonal relationship problems, life crises and issues relating to self-esteem. In her work, she integrates psychodynamic, supportive, mentalisation-based and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) approaches, taking into account the individual’s personal experience, circumstances and therapeutic goals. She provides a safe, respectful and trusting environment.
How does a psychotherapy consultation work?
During the first consultation, the specialist explores the person’s current difficulties, life situation, experiences and therapy goals. The conversation helps identify what is currently causing the greatest difficulties and which issues may be important to address during the therapeutic process.
Psychotherapy is different for every person. Depending on the individual situation and therapy goals, the specialist selects the most appropriate therapeutic approach and methods. Throughout the therapy process, a safe space is created where patients can gradually explore their emotions, relationships, experiences and other issues that are important to them.
Important: psychotherapy and psychiatry are not the same service. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who diagnoses and treats mental health disorders and, when necessary, can prescribe medication. Psychotherapy focuses on therapeutic work with a person’s psychological experiences, emotions, thoughts and relationships. FORTEMED also offers psychiatric consultations and services provided by its mental wellbeing team.