Psychology week from, 13 - 19 November 2011, aims to increase public awareness about psychology.
Read More
What is psychology?
Psychology is the study of mind and behaviour. Its goal is to understand the role of mental functions in individual and group behaviour. Psychologists explore how people understand the world around them, how they think, how they feel, what motivates people, how the brain functions, personality, behaviour and relationships.
What do psychologists do?
Psychologists seek to help people, couples, families or groups function better, whatever their life situation may be, and to prevent ill-health and other problems developing. They also help people who do have mental health problems to become well, or to learn to manage their illness.
Psychologists use a variety of evidence-based treatments to help people improve their lives. Most commonly they use a form of talk therapy or counselling. There are many different styles of therapy, but the psychologist will choose the type that best addresses the person’s problem and best fits their characteristics and preferences.
There are many specialist areas in psychology. For example, educational psychologists specialise in the areas of teaching and learning; developmental psychologists focus on the development of the human mind through all stages of life; and organisational psychologists work with people within organisations as well as studying the behaviour of organisations.
|
 |
Why see a psychologist?
There are many and varied reasons for seeing a psychologist. Sometimes it is to address a problem but it could also be for assistance in identifying and reaching goals and improving performance.
Some people may talk to a psychologist because they feel depressed, angry or anxious. Some want help for a chronic condition that is interfering with their lives or physical health. Others may have short-term problems they want help navigating, such as feeling overwhelmed by a new job or grieving the death of a family member. People may be experiencing relationship difficulties, or have concerns about a child’s behaviour. Sports people often use psychologists to help them to perform at their best.
Psychologists can help people learn to cope with stressful situations, overcome addictions, manage their chronic illnesses and break past the barriers that keep them from reaching their goals.
If you think you might find it helpful to talk to a psychologist for any reason, contact your EAP provider, Caraniche on 1800 099 444 for more information.
