Psychotherapy is typically used when dealing with severe psychological disorders. The first step to performing psychotherapy is diagnosing the client. This is usually done with the help of the Diagnostic Statistical Manual, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV). The DSM-IV is the classification system of psychological disorders. In order to classify a client as a particular disorder, the client must first meet the specified criteria for that disorder. The criteria are often a collection of symptoms often exhibited by someone with that particular. Special attention is also paid to the length of time the symptoms have been present.
Next, the psychologist must decide which type of therapy is most appropriate in treating the disorder. This is usually done with the help of therapy models. Therapy models are derived from the theories developed by psychologists who formulated them. Each theory explains disorders differently; therefore, recommending different treatments. For example, cognitive therapy would treat depression differently than feminist therapy. Often, psychologists combine 2 or more different therapy models into their therapy.
In addition to psychotherapy, psychologists may have to recommend other treatments to their clients. Medication is sometimes required to calm psychotic clients or stabilize moods. Psychologists are by law not allowed to administer medications, so clients would be sent to a psychiatrist for this aspect of treatment. Another possible treatment for clients is hospitalization. This is only done for suicidal and extremely psychotic clients who may be in danger of harming themselves or others. This method of treatment is only meant to stabilize the client and will usually only last a couple of days.
The table below lists some disorders commonly treated in psychotherapy. Each disorder is linked to a web site containing more information.
Some Common Disorders Treated with
Psychotherapy
| Depression | This article focuses on depression in women, the risk factors associated with it, and what is required to better understand and treat it. A reference list is also provided for further sources. |
| Bipolar Disorder | This is a section of the National Depressive and Manic Depressive Associations web site. Bipolar disorder is discussed in detail. |
| Schizophrenia | The Doctor's Guide contains general information about schizophrenia and related disorders. |
| Eating Disorders | This site was created by a recovering anorexic and her husband. It thoroughly discusses types of eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, overeating, and compulsive exercising. |
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