Psychotherapy is intended to help people with a mental health condition to:

• Identify and understand the thoughts and feelings contributing to their illness so they can be modified
• Recognize the life problems or events such as bereavement, serious illness or divorce that triggered their illness
• Regain control of their lives for a better sense of fulfillment
• Adopt healthy coping mechanisms to prevent relapse

The types of therapy given in mental health treatment include the following:

• Individual: This is face-to-face therapy focused entirely on the patient.
• Group: More than two patients participate in therapy at the same time, drawing from personal experiences and working together towards common goals.
• Marital/Couples: This is specific therapy for spouses and partners living with someone who has a mental health disorder.
• Family: It is important that family members are on board with the treatment of a loved one. Research shows that treatment is more effective when individuals are able to return to a supportive environment in recovery.