Lest we be too, too hard on these folks, I should add that, as Eli mentions, there is some value in talking to someone about your problems. I have seen a therapist on occasion who mainly just listens and then tries to advise based on human experience. No lying on the couch, no ink blots, no hypnosis. Just a neutral party to talk to who will keep what I say in confidence. Sort of like Catholic confession, but without all the Hail Marys.
Also, just in case anyone gets confused here (I’m sure someone will), psychotherapist are not the same thing as psychiatrist: the latter are actual doctors who can prescribe therapies, be they drug or other. They may not all be great either, but at least one that I’ve seen really knows his stuff.
Lest we be too, too hard on these folks, I should add that, as Eli mentions, there is some value in talking to someone about your problems. I have seen a therapist on occasion who mainly just listens and then tries to advise based on human experience. No lying on the couch, no ink blots, no hypnosis. Just a neutral party to talk to who will keep what I say in confidence. Sort of like Catholic confession, but without all the Hail Marys.
Also, just in case anyone gets confused here (I’m sure someone will), psychotherapist are not the same thing as psychiatrist: the latter are actual doctors who can prescribe therapies, be they drug or other. They may not all be great either, but at least one that I’ve seen really knows his stuff.