Psychotherapy ยท October 9, 2026
What to Expect in Psychotherapy
By Kathie Bolles, PMHNP-BC
Psychotherapy is a collaborative, evidence-based treatment in which you work with a trained clinician to understand and change the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are causing distress. The American Psychological Association describes it as grounded in dialogue, providing a supportive environment where you can talk openly with someone who is objective and nonjudgmental. It is not a quick fix; it requires active work between sessions. At Mynd Works Psychiatry in Austin, psychotherapy is one of three core areas of care and is often coordinated with medication management where appropriate.
What is psychotherapy?
Psychotherapy is a collaborative treatment based on the relationship between you and a trained clinician. It uses scientifically validated approaches to help you develop healthier, more effective habits and to identify and change the thought and behavior patterns that keep you from feeling your best.
It is used for a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship patterns, and the everyday stress of navigating work and life.
What are the main approaches?
The APA groups psychotherapy into broad categories: psychodynamic therapy, which focuses on unconscious patterns and early experiences; behavior therapy, which targets learned behaviors; cognitive therapy, which addresses thoughts and beliefs (and, as cognitive-behavioral therapy or CBT, combines both); humanistic therapy, which emphasizes the therapeutic relationship; and integrative therapy, which combines elements of several approaches.
Different concerns respond to different approaches, and the right fit depends on your goals and your clinician's assessment.
What happens in a typical session?
Early sessions focus on understanding why you sought therapy and agreeing on goals and an approach. Later sessions are usually around 45 to 50 minutes and roughly weekly, and your clinician may ask you to practice new skills or notice patterns between sessions.
Sessions are confidential, and you should feel free to ask questions or give feedback about how therapy is going.
How is psychotherapy different from psychiatric care?
Psychiatric care includes evaluation and, where appropriate, medication management. Psychotherapy uses conversation and structured techniques to address thoughts, emotions, and behavior. They are different tools that often work well together. You can read more on the difference between psychotherapy and psychiatric care.
How do therapy and medication work together?
For many people, therapy and medication address different parts of the same problem. Medication can help stabilize symptoms while therapy builds coping skills and understanding, and the two can reinforce each other. This is described in more depth in our article on how psychotherapy and medication work together.
How do you get started?
You can request a consultation to discuss whether psychotherapy, psychiatric care, or both are the right starting point for you. Mynd Works offers psychotherapy in person in Austin and by telehealth where clinically appropriate.
Common questions
How long does psychotherapy take?
The length of therapy depends on your goals, the concern being addressed, and your progress. Some people benefit from a short course, while others continue over a longer period. Your clinician will discuss a plan with you.
Is what I say in therapy confidential?
Yes. Psychotherapy is confidential, with limited legal exceptions, for example if there is a risk of harm to yourself or others. Your clinician will explain the boundaries of confidentiality.
Does Mynd Works offer psychotherapy in Austin?
Yes. Psychotherapy is one of the three core areas of care at Mynd Works, available in person in Austin or by secure telehealth where clinically appropriate.
