"Physicians are increasingly pressured to diagnose and treat mental and behavioral health problems that they are often not adequately trained to diagnose or treat. As many as 70% of primary care visits are driven by patients’ psychological problems, such as anxiety, panic, depression, and stress. More than 80% of patients with medically unexplained symptoms receive psychosocial treatment in primary care by a physician—only 10% will follow up on a referral to a mental health provider that is not co-located" (American Psychological Association, 2009).

"Based on epidemiological studies, 27.8% of the adult population in Germany is affected by a mental illness every year. At 17.8 million people, this corresponds to the population of North Rhine-Westphalia (Study on the Health of Adults in Germany and its additional module "Mental Health" (DEGS1MH), 2014).

Going to a (in this case naturopathic) psychotherapist can be likened to going to a gym to keep your body healthy. Here's an analogy to help illustrate why it's beneficial:

• Mental Health Maintenance: Just as we go to the gym to maintain our physical health, we visit a psychotherapist to maintain our mental health. Psychotherapy provides a structured and consistent way to work on our emotional and psychological well-being. It's like having a personal trainer for your mind and heart.
• Preventative Care: People often visit a gym not only to address existing health issues but also to prevent future problems. Similarly, psychotherapy is not just for individuals with diagnosed mental health disorders; it's also a valuable tool for preventing the development of more severe psychological issues. Regular sessions with me can help you build resilience and coping skills to navigate life's challenges effectively.
• Stress Reduction: Just as exercise can reduce stress by releasing endorphins, psychotherapy can help you manage and reduce emotional stress. Talking to me provides a safe space to express your feelings, gain insight into your stressors, and learn effective strategies to cope with them.
• Building Emotional Strength: Going to the gym helps build physical strength and endurance over time. Psychotherapy helps you build emotional strength by addressing and processing difficult emotions and experiences. It equips you with the tools to manage emotional challenges more effectively.
• Skill Development: Just as you learn proper exercise techniques at the gym, psychotherapy helps you develop essential life skills. These skills may include effective communication, conflict resolution, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. Learning and practicing these skills can enhance your overall well-being.
• Goal Setting and Progress Tracking: In both scenarios, setting specific goals is essential. I will work with you to identify your emotional and psychological goals and track your progress over time. This process can help you stay motivated and focused on your mental health objectives, much like tracking fitness goals at the gym.
• Accountability and Support: a naturopathic positive psychotherapist offers a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. I provide guidance and feedback to help you make positive changes in your life.
• Holistic Wellness: Just as a well-rounded fitness routine addresses various aspects of physical health, naturopathic psychotherapy addresses the holistic nature of mental health. It considers the interplay of thoughts, emotions, behaviours, and relationships to promote overall well-being.

In summary, coming to a naturopathic psychotherapist like me is a proactive and preventive measure that helps you build emotional strength, develop essential life skills, reduce stress, and maintain your overall well-being. Just as regular exercise is crucial for physical health, regular psychotherapy sessions can be equally valuable for maintaining and enhancing your mental and emotional health.