What is Psychotherapy — and How Does it Work?
Many people arrive expecting something close to a medical consultation: present the symptoms, receive the diagnosis, follow the treatment, achieve the cure. This is not how psychotherapy works.
Psychotherapy is a collaborative, relational process in which two people work together over time to understand the patterns, feelings, and experiences that shape how the person lives. The relationship itself is the primary medium through which change becomes possible.
Not the medical model
Many people arrive expecting something close to a medical consultation: present the symptoms, receive the diagnosis, follow the treatment, achieve the cure. This is not how psychotherapy works.
“If you want a magic trick, take the Eurostar. Go to Disneyland Paris.” — Philippe Jacquet
Psychotherapy requires effort, energy, and time. The client is not passive. The work happens as much between sessions as within them.
What actually changes — and how
Change in psychotherapy is rarely dramatic. It tends to be cumulative and quiet. A pattern is noticed that had always been invisible. A feeling is named that had always been acted upon without recognition.
“You will not suffer less. You will suffer better.” — Philippe Jacquet
Book a consultation with Philippe Jacquet — psychotherapist and Jungian analyst, London.