Psychology is a process of helping others and oneself.  With the building of relationship with your counselor, both of you are going to explore together your repressed emotions, distorted thoughts and learn a new way of coping with problems and dealing with day to day difficulties.  It is mainly though the rapport relationship between the client and your counselor to help those who have difficulties in their daily life. Psychologist will make use of various techniques including building rapport relationship, communication, dialogue and change of behavior, so that you can improve your psychological health and building better relationship with others.

During the first session, your psychologist will work with you to determine whether psychotherapy is right for you, and which approach will be most effective in addressing your problems.

What is the difference between a Psychiatrist and a Psychologist?
There are many similarities and differences between the two.  The main things that both have in common are that both types of professionals are able to offer psychotherapy and counselling services, and also diagnose psychological disorders and dysfunctions.  The main difference between them is the type of education and the tools they use as treatment.  Psychologists cannot prescribe medications and use only psychological means, including psychological tests, behaviour modification, cognitive re-structuring, relaxation and hypnotic techniques, and different counselling approaches in treating the patient.  Psychiatrists can prescribe medicine, and usually they will focus on medical management instead of psychotherapy during sessions.

Can an individual and Psychologist have a relationship outside of therapy?
No.  Psychologist is a one-way street.  The psychologist knows a great deal about the patient but the patient does not know intimate details about the psychologist. Because of this, the psychologist often seems to have a greater power or influence over the individual, which could result in abuse or deception.
However, it is generally not a good idea to seek therapy from someone you know personally or with whom you may have another relationship (e.g., business interest, friendship). In fact, the ethics of most professions prohibit their members from engaging in these types of relationships.

Is it okay for psychologists and patients to date?
Dating or any sexual contact between a psychologist and patient is inappropriate.  This includes seeking therapy from someone with whom you have been involved, with whom you had an intimate relationship with in the past, dating during therapy or starting a relationship after therapy has ended.  Many states have specific statutes regarding this behavior.

Will my psychologist be angry if I switch to another practitioner?
The answer to this question should be no. Psychologists are professionals who should have the best interest of their patient at heart. Any decision to switch psychologists should be explored with the psychologist. If your psychologist gets touchy or angry at your decision, you can take comfort in the fact that you have made the right decision.

Which is better, therapy or medication?
Both medication and therapy have been shown to be effective in treating mental illness. The type of treatment used depends on the nature of the problem. Generally, medication is often prescribed for conditions known to have strong biological components, such as major depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or panic disorder.
Research suggests that use of medication and psychotherapy together may be the best approach, especially for more severe conditions. The medication offers relief from symptoms, and psychotherapy enables the individual to gain knowledge about her condition and how to handle it. This combined approach offers the fastest, longest-lasting treatment.