The process of sorting out feelings and thoughts (past and present) eases emotional disorders and promotes personal growth because it makes us aware of options. Constructive choices are better than destructive ones. Emotions, thoughts, and behavior tend to travel together, so intervention at any point can result in overall change. I view therapy as a real-life puzzle: what are your goals; what gets in the way, and what are other ways to achieve what you want.

(Often when I receive a notice that somebody who got my name from PSYCHOLOGY TODAY called me, there is no message. If I don’t return the call, it’s because I didn’t get the message. You can get contact information from my website, twrightphd.com.)