Colegiul Național “Ion Neculce”

THERAPY. PSYCHOLOGY PSYCHIATRY

Atestat profesional la Limba Engleză

Profesor coordonator: Florescu Iulia

Vlad Ioana Sorina

Clasa a XII-a F

București, 2024
 Contents

1. Introduction …………………………………………………………..………….3
2. Defining therapy…………………………………………………………..……...4
3. Defining psychology ………………………………………………………...…..6
4. Defining psychiatry…………………………………………………….….…….
5. Similarities and contrasts ………………………………………………..………
6. Bibliography ………………………………………………………….….……...
 Introduction

The human brain, weighing about three pounds, stands as the epitome of complexity
within the body. Functioning as the hub of intelligence, interpreter of sensory input, catalyst for
physical actions, and regulator of behavior, it resides encased in its protective bony enclosure. It
is from this organ that all the attributes defining our humanity emanate, truly making it the jewel
of the human physique.

The brain functions like a group of specialists. While each part collaborates seamlessly,
every component holds its unique set of tasks. Essentially, the brain can be categorized into three
fundamental divisions: the forebrain, the midbrain, and the hindbrain.Within the hindbrain lie the
upper segment of the spinal cord, the brain stem, and a mass of tissue known as the
cerebellum.The cerebellum coordinates movement and is involved in learned movements.

The forebrain, boasting the highest degree of development and size within the human
brain, primarily encompasses the cerebrum and its underlying structures.The cerebrum is divided
into two hemispheres by a profound cleft. These hemispheres are interconnected by a dense
bundle of nerve fibers called the corpus callosum, situated at the base of this division. Despite
appearing as mirror images, they exhibit distinct characteristics. For instance, the left hemisphere
is often associated with language formation, whereas the right hemisphere is believed to govern
numerous abstract reasoning abilities.

The inner brain structures are the hypothalamus, the thalamus and the hippocampus.The
hypothalamus, resembling the size of a pearl, orchestrates a plethora of vital functions. It rouses
you from sleep in the morning and triggers the release of adrenaline during moments of stress.
Additionally, the hypothalamus serves as a crucial emotional hub, regulating the
neurotransmitters responsible for feelings of euphoria, anger, or sadness. Adjacent to the
hypothalamus lies the thalamus, serving as a central relay station for information traveling
between the spinal cord and the cerebrum.Extending from the hypothalamus and the thalamus is
a curved pathway of nerve cells leading to the hippocampus. This minuscule structure acts as a
memory organizer, dispatching memories to the appropriate regions of the cerebral hemisphere
for long-term storage and retrieving them when needed.

Mental health profoundly influences the intricate workings of the brain. Emotional well-
being, cognitive function, and overall mental state are intricately intertwined with the brain's
structure and chemistry. When mental health suffers, it can disrupt neural pathways, alter
neurotransmitter levels, and even lead to physical changes in the brain. Conditions such as
depression, anxiety, and stress can manifest in various ways, impacting memory, attention,
decision-making, and emotional regulation. Conversely, maintaining good mental health through
practices like mindfulness, therapy, and social support can foster neuroplasticity, resilience, and
cognitive flexibility. Understanding the dynamic interplay between mental health and the brain
underscores the importance of holistic approaches to well-being that prioritize both
psychological and neurological aspects.Optimal mental health enables individuals to think, feel,
and respond in alignment with their desired way of life. However, during periods of poor mental
health, these cognitive, emotional, and behavioral processes may become challenging or even
unmanageable. Tasks and situations that were once navigated effortlessly may suddenly seem
overwhelming or insurmountable. This shift can disrupt daily functioning and impair one's
ability to engage in fulfilling activities or maintain healthy relationships. Recognizing and
addressing these difficulties is crucial for restoring mental well-being and reclaiming a sense of
control and fulfillment in life.

The causes of mental health issues are diverse and can vary widely from person to
person. It's probable that, for many individuals, these problems stem from a complex interplay of
multiple factors. While certain influences may impact some people more profoundly than others,
the combination of factors contributing to mental health challenges is often intricate and
multifaceted.

Defining therapy

Psychotherapy boasts a rich and diverse history, tracing its roots back to ancient Greek
civilization. However, it wasn't until the late 19th century that it began to evolve into the
recognizable form we know today, largely due to the pioneering work of Sigmund Freud and the
emergence of psychoanalysis. Freud's groundbreaking contributions revolutionized the field by
emphasizing the significance of the unconscious mind and its profound impact on human
behavior.

Psychotherapy, commonly known as talk therapy or simply "therapy," serves as a

treatment modality targeting emotional distress and mental health concerns. Administered by a
variety of trained professionals such as psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, or licensed
counselors, it involves exploring and gaining insight into the life choices and challenges faced by
individuals, couples, or families. Therapy sessions entail structured meetings between a licensed
practitioner and a client, with the objective of enhancing some aspect of their life. With a broad
spectrum of treatment approaches and techniques, psychotherapy emphasizes collaborative work
between the therapist and the client, aiming for discernible improvement and positive changes
over time.

The first session of therapy can be anxiety-provoking, and it’s normal to feel nervous or
unsure of what to expect. Luckily, most patients will find that the first session of therapy follows
a predictable format. Most therapists spend the first session asking general questions to get a
sense of the client’s background, their past experience with therapy, and what issues they’re
hoping to address. Clients may wonder what they can and should bring to the table in terms of
discussion, and the fact is that few, if any, topics are off limits. They will also likely discuss their
own modality or style and offer an outline of what the client can expect. If a client has questions
about privacy and confidentiality, those concerns should be raised and addressed.

Although various forms of therapy share common elements, they can also be categorized
into clusters based on shared fundamental principles. These clusters include cognitive therapies,
which focus on identifying and modifying maladaptive thought patterns, and psychodynamic
approaches, which delve into unconscious conflicts and early life experiences to understand
present behavior.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy designed to help

individuals recognize the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and actions. Widely
utilized in the treatment of various disorders like depression, anxiety, and phobias, CBT aims to
pinpoint negative or unhelpful thought patterns and replace them with more constructive ones.
Typically conducted over a short-term period with specific objectives in mind, CBT involves
close collaboration between the individual and therapist to develop practical skills and strategies
for symptom management and reduction. This may include engaging in homework assignments
such as practicing relaxation techniques or maintaining a journal of thoughts and feelings.
Supported by extensive research, CBT is widely regarded as an effective treatment option for
numerous mental health conditions and is often integrated with other modalities such as
medication or additional forms of therapy.

Psychodynamic therapy, also recognized as insight-oriented therapy, operates on the

premise that our actions and emotions are heavily shaped by unconscious thoughts and feelings.
The primary objective of this therapeutic approach is to bring these hidden elements into
conscious awareness, aiding individuals in comprehending and resolving their challenges.This
form of therapy frequently delves into past experiences, particularly those from early childhood,
to elucidate their impact on present behaviors and thoughts. Additionally, it places considerable
emphasis on the therapeutic relationship as a means of gaining insights into interpersonal
dynamics.Although psychodynamic therapy is often considered a longer-term intervention,
shorter-term variations have been developed. These adaptations prioritize addressing immediate
issues and alleviating symptoms while still utilizing psychodynamic principles to explore
underlying concerns.

Psychotherapists play a pivotal role in fostering a secure, nurturing atmosphere wherein

individuals can freely delve into their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Employing a diverse
array of techniques and methodologies, they aid individuals in comprehending and addressing
their challenges, enhancing their overall well-being, and attaining their objectives. Trained to
engage in active listening and constructive interaction, psychotherapists facilitate novel and
beneficial perspectives for individuals. They may utilize questioning, offer insights, impart new
skills, or lead individuals through various exercises or activities. Moreover, they extend empathy
and validation, fostering a sense of understanding and acceptance within the therapeutic
relationship.

Defining psychology

Psychology indeed stands as a relatively young scientific discipline, with significant

advancements occurring predominantly within the past 150 years. Nonetheless, its roots stretch
back to ancient Greece, dating as far back as 400 – 500 BC. The term "psychology" originates
from the amalgamation of two Greek roots. Firstly, "psychē" encompasses a spectrum of
concepts relating to the mind, soul, and vital essence. In the philosophical context of ancient
Greece, it was often associated with the breath of life or the quintessence of an individual's
being. Secondly, the suffix "-logia" derives from "logos," which denotes principles of speech,
discourse, or reason. Within this framework, "-logia" signifies the study or science dedicated to a
specific subject matter.Therefore, when combined, "psychology" can be interpreted as the study
or science of the mind, soul, or life force, emphasizing the exploration of mental processes,
behavior, and human experience.

During the nascent stages of psychology, two primary theoretical perspectives emerged
concerning the workings of the brain: structuralism and functionalism.

Structuralism, spearheaded by Wilhelm Wundt (1832-1920), aimed to dissect mental

processes into their fundamental components. This approach relied heavily on trained
introspection, a research method in which subjects articulated their inner thoughts while
engaging in specific tasks.However, introspection soon revealed its limitations as a reliable
method due to the considerable individual variation observed in the experiences and reports of
research subjects.
 William James, an American psychologist (1842-1910), pioneered an alternative
approach to psychology, known as functionalism, which diverged from the principles of
structuralism.James contested the premise of structuralism, asserting that the mind is in a
perpetual state of flux, rendering the pursuit of its structure futile. Instead, he advocated for an
examination of why and how organisms engage in behavior, emphasizing the functions or
purposes served by the brain.According to James, psychologists should investigate the
underlying determinants of behavior and the associated mental processes. This focus on the
causes and outcomes of behavior has left an indelible mark on contemporary psychology.

Psychology encompasses several major branches, each dedicated to exploring distinct

aspects of human behavior and mental processes. These branches include clinical psychology,
which focuses on mental health and the treatment of psychological disorders; developmental
psychology, which examines human growth and change across the lifespan; social psychology,
which investigates how individuals interact with and influence one another; cognitive
psychology, which explores mental processes such as perception, memory, and problem-solving;
neuroscience, which studies the brain and its functions; and educational psychology, which
examines learning, teaching, and educational interventions. Together, these branches cover a
broad spectrum of topics ranging from mental health to cognition to social behavior.

A psychologist is a skilled mental health practitioner dedicated to assisting individuals in

navigating mental health difficulties and fostering healthier coping mechanisms. Whether
supporting individuals managing conditions such as depression or anxiety, or aiding those
grappling with life transitions such as grief, psychologists offer tailored interventions to address
diverse needs. Their expertise is honed through years of rigorous education and training,
enabling them to deliver a spectrum of mental health services with compassion and effectiveness.

Reverse psychology is a psychological technique employed in persuasion where an

individual strategically encourages another person to adopt a particular behavior or attitude by
suggesting the opposite. This approach capitalizes on the human tendency to resist direct orders
or suggestions, often leading individuals to react in defiance or opposition. By subtly implying
that the desired action is undesirable or off-limits, the persuader aims to provoke a reaction that
aligns with their true intentions. Reverse psychology can be employed in various contexts, from
parenting to marketing, where influencing behavior or decision-making is paramount. Despite its
simplicity, when applied effectively, reverse psychology can be a powerful tool for subtly
steering others toward desired outcomes.

Defining psychiatry
While the role of a psychotherapist is primarily focused on therapeutic
techniques and approaches, it’s interesting to note the subtle yet significant
distinctions between this role and that of psychologists.
What is the difference between a psychologist and a
psychiatrist?
Many psychotherapists are clinical psychologists by training, meaning they
are educated in the science and practice of clinical psychological approaches
to treatment. Psychologists who attain a doctoral level of education
conventionally earn a Ph.D. or Psy.D. Psychiatrists, in contrast, are trained as
medical doctors—they typically earn a M.D. or D.O. degree and can prescribe
psychotropic medications. While psychologists offer many varieties of talk
therapy, they are generally not permitted to prescribe medications. (Therapists
can also include social workers and other professionals.)

What is the difference between a psychologist and a

psychiatrist?

Psychologists and psychiatrists both work in the mental health field, but their
training and approach differ.

Psychologists typically hold a doctoral degree in psychology and provide

therapy, conduct research, and administer psychological tests.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental health and can
prescribe medication to manage mental health conditions. They often work
with more complex cases and those requiring medication management.

Clinical psychologists vs. therapists

Clinical psychologists and therapists also differ in training, salaries and
specialties:

Education
Even though a clinical psychologist and a therapist both have training and
experience working with mental health clients, their levels of education differ.
Clinical psychologists are required to first complete a bachelor's degree, then
obtain a master's and finally a doctorate, typically a Doctor of Philosophy
(Ph.D.) or Doctor of Psychology (PsyD), from a program accredited by the
American Psychological Association (APA).A Doctor of Education (EdD) may
qualify depending on state license requirements. Certification may also be a
requirement for specialty care. Typically, clinical psychologists also continue
their education and training to maintain their licenses.
A bachelor's degree is the minimum educational requirement for mental health
therapists, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Additionally,
substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors can often work with a
bachelor's degree alone, but mental health counselors typically require a
master's degree and internship experience.Some counselors require a state-
issued license. Many therapists obtain master's degrees in their specialty area
such as marriage and family therapy, from institutions accredited by the
Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational
Programs (CACREP). Typically, therapists also continue their education and
training to maintain their licenses.
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