A therapist knows how to time interventions according to a client's readiness. Together, client and therapist decide the frequency of sessions and when it is time to end the therapy. Human beings have the amazing ability to control or alter the course of their lives. Furthermore, we are biologically programmed to control and change our fate most effectively when we discuss our feelings with a helping person. This is why the effects of talking to another person are more profound than the effects of talking to ourselves, especially when the other person can listen skillfully and respond empathically.
Psychotherapists use the skills and knowledge of psychology.
The power of the healing relationship between patient and therapist grows over time. Research shows that with trained, empathic and experienced therapists, people can make great improvements in their personal, emotional, occupational and interpersonal lives. In fact, millions of people have benefited from psychotherapy. Solving problems in therapy can prevent many of the social tragedies of our time including depression, domestic violence, child abuse, school failure, substance abuse and suicide.