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Spotlight on the Different Psys: Choosing the Right Support for You
Explaining the Different Psys
Who are all the different psys ? There’s a whole range of them … Psychopractitioner, psychotherapist, psychologist, psychoanalyst and even psychiatrist ….
Can’t tell the difference?
Well, I’m going to explain it here. Because, if you're not sure which one to choose, this might help.
The Psychopractitioner -
Understanding the Profession
In a nutshell, in English, a trained Psychopractitioner in psychotherapy is also called a Counsellor or Psychotherapist. In American it can be a Psychopractioner, a Psychopractor or a Counselor (with just one ‘l’ ). Here, because we’re based in France, we’re going to keep it simple and stick with the term Psychopractitioner.
In a nutshell then, a qualified Psychopractitioner can help individuals deal with a variety of psychological or emotional issues which may include:
- Mood disorders such as stress, depression or anxiety,
- Relationship difficulties
- Lack of confidence
- Behavioral disorders
- Self-esteem problems
- Life crises
- Existential questions
Some have specialised trainings in areas such as:
- Eating disorders
- Bereavement
- Addictions
- Burnout
- Trauma
Thanks to their training, psychopractitioners use specific therapeutic approaches and techniques to help people identify the underlying causes of their problems and find solutions adapted to their situation.
The main aim of the psychopractitioner is to accompany their clients towards psychological and emotional well-being, helping them to gain inner balance, to develop strategies for coping with the challenges of everyday life.
A Psychopractitioner: What is that ?
And What About a Person-Centered
Psychopractitioner ?
Psychopractioners trained in the Person-Centered Approach (PCA) to psychotherapy support or counselling to their clients through their difficulties by offering them:
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a confidential listening space,
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empathic understanding and clarity about their problems
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support and security
The Person-Centered (PCA) psychopractitioner can also accompany someone in their personal development, helping individuals to get to know themselves better, to explore their inner resources and to develop their potential for a more fulfilling life.
Discover How Ethical Practice is Ensured
The Ethics of Psychopractioners
To guarantee ethical practice, a psychopractioner certified in the Person-Centered Approach (PCA) in France takes several steps by :
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Joining an organisation such as SNPpsy or FFP2. Respecting their code of ethics is essential to the proper practice of psychopractioners and counselors. If the therapist is a member of an ethical body with a code of ethics such as the above, then they’re obliged to take part in supervision sessions. So, what is supervision all about ?
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Having supervision is an important and ethical practice In psychotherapy. What that means is that a qualified health professional, experienced in therapeutic supervision, supports and evaluates the work of the psychotherapist. The aim of this is to guarantee the quality of the therapeutic support provided.
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Having long and in-depth psychotherapy is considered essential for a psychopractioner to be able to really help people in therapy.
All these steps are taken to ensure that people who consult a psychopractioner trained in the Person-Centered Approach receive quality care. This ensures that they adhere to high ethical standards and provide safe, effective support to their clients.
The Pathway to Becoming a Licensed Psychopractitioner
What leads to becoming a Qualified Psychopractioner
A trained psychopractioner is a professional who specialises in helping individuals in psychological or emotional distress. They are often trained in specific therapeutic approaches such as humanistic psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, Gestalt therapy or psychoanalysis.
If understanding what a "psychopractitioner" means seems a little hazy at first, it's perhaps because there are several pathways to becoming qualified. But, in any case, a trained psychopractitioner needs to undergo in-depth training in a particular area of psychotherapy. That means they learn a lot of theory. A therapist training in the Person-Centered Approach, also needs to put what they learn into practice. This can take at least five years, which is no mean feat!
A psychopractitioner can train in different approaches, such as :
Gestalt Therapy
Somatic
Mind - Body
Therapy
Creative and Art-Based Approach
Yoga Therapy
They may also have several speciality trainings under their belt. To get an idea, have a look at my qualifications.
This list is by no means exhaustive, and there are other training courses and approaches to psychotherapy too.
Exploring the World of Psys - Navigating between Psychopractitioners, Psychotherapists and More
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A psychologist has undergone university training and studied human behavior, but cannot prescribe medication.
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A psychiatrist is a doctor who specialises in mental disorders. They can prescribe medication, and their consultations are reimbursed by the social security.
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A psychoanalyst practices the analytic method, first developed by Sigmund Freud and typically invites us to lie on a couch and explore our unconsciousness.
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Un psychopractitioner, on the other hand, focuses on psychotherapy and, depending on people's needs, helps them to overcome their emotional and mental problems using different therapeutic approaches.
What Distinguishes Psychopractitioners from Other 'Psys'?
Now, you may be wondering what the difference is between a
psychopractitioner, psychologist or a psychiatrist. Well, here's a little explanation:
Looking for a Psychopractitioner -
The Keys to Making Your Choice
How to choose a Psy
Tips for Finding Your Psy
Now that you know what the different Psys are, you might be wondering how to find a good one. Well, here are a few tips:
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Make sure you feel comfortable with them. The therapeutic relationship is important.
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Check that they are well trained and even that they continue to train regularly.
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Ask friends and family for recommendations.
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Above all, listen to your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, it’s important that you take that into account. And even that you don't continue.
Ultimately, finding a good practitioner in psychotherapy can make all the difference in your life.
It's someone who can help you through the tough times. It’s someone who can help you overcome your fears so you can become the best version of yourself.
So, if you feel the need, don't hesitate to take the plunge and ask for help. After all, you do deserve it!
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