What is Psychotherapy and why do People Seek it out?

A female therapist and her client representing trauma therapist, EMDR therapist, attachment based therapist in Sierra Madre, Pasadena, Glendale, Arcadia, Glendora, California.

Understanding Psychotherapy at Attachment Based Therapy

Psychotherapy, often referred to as “talk therapy,” is a professional treatment method used to help individuals, couples, and families manage and overcome a wide range of emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges. It involves structured conversations between a trained therapist and a client, with the goal of improving mental well-being, resolving problematic behaviors and symptoms, and fostering personal growth.

Psychotherapy can take many forms or methods, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, humanistic therapy, and specifically at our practice, attachment based therapy. Some sessions are short-term and solution-focused, while others may be long-term and explore deeper emotional patterns. Therapy may be conducted individually, with couples, families, or in group settings, depending on the needs of the client.

Whether someone is dealing with a major life crisis or simply wants to better understand themselves, psychotherapy offers a supportive space to process feelings, gain insight, and develop healthier coping strategies.

Top Five Reasons Clients Choose to Seek out Mental Health Services

1. Anxiety and Stress

One of the most common reasons clients seek therapy is to manage their anxiety and stress. Whether it's general anxiety, panic attacks, or stress related to work, relationships, or life transitions, these issues can significantly impact daily functioning. Therapy can help clients identify triggers, understand their thought patterns, and learn techniques to reduce and manage their anxiety.

2. Depression and Other Mood Disorders

Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or lack of motivation that persist for weeks or months may be signs of depression. Many people struggle silently, unsure of how to feel better. Therapy at Attachment Based Therapy Tx in Sierra Madre, CA provides clients with a safe, nonjudgmental environment to explore the root causes of these feelings and develop strategies for managing symptoms and regaining a sense of control and joy.

3. Relationship Issues

Whether it’s conflict with a partner, difficulties with family members, or challenges in social interactions, relationships play a significant role in our mental health. Clients often come to therapy to improve communication, build stronger connections, or heal from relationship trauma. Couples therapy and family therapy are also options when multiple parties want to work together toward healthier dynamics.

4. Trauma and Past Experiences

Many people seek therapy to process traumatic experiences, whether from childhood or recent events. Trauma can lead to long-term emotional and psychological effects, including PTSD, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Trauma-informed therapy offers a compassionate space for clients to safely confront and work through painful memories, especially through a treatment method called, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) that our therapists specialize in.

5. Life Transitions and Personal Growth

Life changes—such as career shifts, moving, parenthood, or loss—can be overwhelming and emotionally taxing. Even positive changes can bring uncertainty. People also seek therapy not just to “fix” something, but to better understand themselves, clarify goals, and grow as individuals. Therapy can support personal development, enhance self-awareness, and improve overall life satisfaction.

Find a Trauma Therapist at Attachment Based Therapy in Los Angeles, California

Psychotherapy is a powerful tool for healing, self-discovery, and transformation. Whether you’re struggling with a specific issue or simply looking to become the best version of yourself, seeking help from one of our mental health professionals at Attachment Based Therapy Tx can be a meaningful step toward a healthier and more fulfilling life.

At our Los Angeles, CA based therapy practice, we have skilled trauma therapists who strive to consider your unique background in treatment and can provide a transformative therapeutic experience for you and your loved ones. Follow these steps below to get started.

  1. Fill out this contact form to get connected with our team.

  2. Get matched with one of our trained mental health professionals.

  3. Schedule your first session with that therapist.