Psychology and Adults

Why do adults see a psychologist?

Adults see a psychologist for a range of reasons. Sometimes there is a clear precipitant, stressful or traumatic life event. Other times it can be a feeling or state of mind that interferes with people’s lives (work, relationships, study), which can be prompts to seek help.

I heard that you can still benefit from seeing a psychologist even when you are feeling fine.

That’s right. Sometimes people talk to a psychologist because they want to prepare themselves for an approaching significant life event (for example marriage, pregnancy, retirement, death anniversary). For other people, there may be a wish for early intervention due to a family history of mental illness. Many people find that seeking help from a psychologist when they are not in crisis presents them with an opportunity to develop a different kind of insight and personal growth.

I’m embarrassed to seek help. I should be able to cope on my own and seeing a psychologist means that I’m a failure.

The above statements are not true! Talking to a psychologist requires a lot of courage. It is not easy for people to admit their insecurities to themselves let alone a stranger! However, in order to achieve a meaningful life that is fulfilling, satisfying and free from pain, people often have to understand thoughts, feelings and experiences that have been confronting and painful.

Do I have a mental illness or am I just stressed?

A clinical psychologist will be able to complete an assessment to establish if the difficulties you are having is best understood as a mental illness or otherwise.

What should I do to start seeing a psychologist?

You can see a psychologist with or without a referral from your GP, paediatrician or psychiatrist. If you obtain a referral with a Mental Health Care Plan, then you are entitled to up to 10 sessions in a calendar year with a Medicare rebate. This rebate covers a large portion of the session fees.