(Click on each question to expand the answer)
The frequency of sessions can offer a greater intensity in the establishment and the use of the relationship between the analyst and patient in order to work through ongoing struggles that are not often spoken about in a person's every day life. It is similar to someone wanting to master a musical instrument: if the person wants to get skilled at playing, the person should practice as frequently as possible. In this metaphor, your mind is the instrument you are learning, so the more you practice (i.e., engage in analysis or psychotherapy), the better you know and understand your mind.
I do not prescribe medication; however, there are several psychiatrists with whom I collaborate. I am happy to refer you to a trusted colleague who can help in this way. While often psychotherapy can be sufficient, medication can be a helpful addition. Research shows that psychotherapy can be just as effective as medication when it comes to most struggles people face. A combination of both has also proven to be effective for many.
A person who has completed additional training in an intensive form of psychotherapy beyond his or her masters, doctorate, or medical degree. Psychoanalysts are trained to treat people in psychoanalysis and in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Psychoanalysts can be trained in psychology, psychiatry, social work, counseling, or marriage and family therapy (as their primary degree).
A person who has earned a doctorate in clinical or counseling psychology and is licensed by the state as a psychologist. A psychologist can work in multiple therapeutic modalities (psychoanalysis, cognitive-behavioral therapy, marriage counseling, etc.), often diagnosis people with mental illness through formal assessment (including psychological testing), and often have more experience and training working with people struggling with more severe forms of mental health issues.
A person who has earned a medical degree and is able to prescribe medication for mental health disorders (depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, etc.). Most psychiatrists only engage in medication management; however, some engage in psychotherapy (those who do on a regular basis tend to be also trained in psychoanalysis).
For simplicity's sake, I have placed these three into one category, but their training does differ. For the most part, social workers, counselors, and marriage and family therapists are masters level clinicians (all three can earn doctorates, but this is usually accomplished in order for them to teach at the college level). They are licensed by the state in their respective fields (a doctorate is not required for licensure like for psychologists and psychiatrists). They tend to offer counseling with individuals, families, couples, and children. While their education is not as extensive, counselors, marriage and family therapists, and social workers help a wide range of people through various approaches and are well-trained to counsel others in times of distress.
Overall, this is simply a word preference for me; however, when thinking through this more, I discovered that the origin for "patient" means "one who suffers" whereas "client" means "one who pays." It is my belief that you are seeking help because you are experiencing some form of suffering, not simply because you want to pay. We are all suffering in some way and the term patient captures something of our humanity.
1340 N White Chapel Blvd, Suite 130
Southlake, TX 76092