Effective Psychotherapists Reach Peak Demand In LA
California remains the top state in the nation that puts the largest number of clinical and counseling psychologists to work, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. These practitioners hold cross-shaped posts in such industries as education, health services, government and individual and family services, earning a median salary of $80,000 annually. In Los Angeles, the multifaceted field of psychotherapy has advanced to become an influential and purposeful component in the treatment of varied mental disorders.
"People often need professional, psychological help to cope with general feelings of sadness, loss, grief, worry, anxiety, trauma, anger, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, interpersonal disappointments and conflicts, including divorce," said Lynn R.W. White, a licensed marriage and family therapist and Pepperdine University alumna. "In L.A., home to the many wonders and insecurities of the Hollywood job market, work stress is highly prevalent."
Why do children need psychotherapy?
"Children may require professional interaction for fears and anxieties, adjusting to divorcing or divorced parents, as well as for disorders such as Asperger's, autism, learning disabilities, sleep problems and social interaction."
What major mental or behavioral issues are you currently addressing?
"A very serious set of symptoms people seek help for include addictions, chronic depression, chronic pain, panic and phobic disturbances, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, hoarding, sexual problems, gender issues, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia."
What types of admirable traits do effective psychotherapists carry?
"A successful psychotherapist possesses a real love for human beings and all dimensions of the human condition. He or she is informed by psychological education with expert ability to hear authentically and communicate tactfully."
Is psychotherapy a science or an art?
"Because both professional psychotherapists and the public at large might prefer to consider this field as scientific, the thrust of both research and theory may well be done on the scientific side. However, there is far more art, creativity, problem solving and ingenuity demanded by this work, as well."
How does psychotherapy help others become better members of social units?
"When a person finds a better, smoother path in life, they feel safer, happier and more fulfilled. In effect, they become more productive members of family and society."
Sharon Raiford Bush is an award-winning journalist who covers topics of social interest in greater Los Angeles. Some news articles she has authored have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Sharon also contributes to Examiner.com.
