Mrs Rosa Oyta

A conversation with Rosa Oyta

• What led you to choose psychotherapy or counselling as a profession?

  When I was young, I had a natural tendency to help my friends with their problems. I felt fulfilled when I could offer them guidance and support. This led me to develop a strong interest in counseling and therapy. I started reading books and articles about mental health, fascinated by how different people cope with challenges in their lives. As I grew older, my passion for psychology and helping others only continued to grow. I was fascinated by the complex workings of the human mind and the many ways in which people navigate the world. Ultimately, I considered a career as a psychologist because I was drawn to the idea of helping people to achieve a greater sense of self-awareness and to help them reach their full potential.

• Which philosophical approaches have influenced your professional development?

  My career and work as a psychologist is influenced by humanistic philosophy which places emphasis on individual growth, self-actualisation, and the potential for individuals to make their own choices. This approach guides me to value the client as a unique individual and helps me to establish a genuine and empathic relationship with them. My goal is to create a non-judgmental space where clients feel comfortable exploring their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. Through this approach, I aim to help clients develop self-awareness, enhance their personal growth, and move towards fulfilling their potential.

• Which particular aspects of health or the human journey are you interested in?

  As a psychologist, I have always had a particular interest in individual mental health. I believe that every individual's mental health journey is unique, and that personalised treatment is crucial for achieving successful outcomes. Through my work, I have come to understand that mental health is not just the absence of illness, but a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being. I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve this state by providing evidence-based treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) that focus on the development of coping mechanisms, behavioral activation, and the restructuring of negative thoughts. I believe in empowering individuals to take control of their mental health by providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive. My ultimate goal is to help individuals achieve a sense of fulfillment and happiness in their lives by promoting positive mental health and well-being.

• What methods do you use?

  In therapy, I utilise various techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), including identifying and challenging negative thoughts, setting and working towards achievable goals, and using relaxation and mindfulness techniques. These evidence-based practices help clients improve their mental health and develop new coping strategies for a more fulfilling life.

• When do you think the client will start to feel that progress is being made?

  It depends on the client's unique circumstances and the nature of their concerns. Generally, progress can be observed when clients start to feel more in control of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. They may begin to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and make changes in their behavior, leading to improvements in their overall well-being. However, the timeline for progress varies for each client, and it is important to have open communication to track progress and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

• How has therapy made a difference in your life?

  Therapy has allowed me to develop a deeper understanding of human behavior and emotions, which I can apply to my personal life and relationships. My work also encourages self-reflection and self-awareness, which helps me maintain a healthy work-life balance and improve my own mental health. Overall, being a therapist allows me to continuously grow and learn, which ultimately benefits both myself and my clients.

• What do you like most about being a therapist?

  There are many aspects that I enjoy doing in my work, including the ability to help people improve their mental health, witness positive changes in their clients, and make a meaningful impact on their lives. Additionally, I find fulfillment in developing and maintaining strong therapeutic relationships with my clients, learning about their unique experiences and perspectives, and being a source of support and guidance through difficult times. Finally, I engage in a constantly evolving body of knowledge and techniques to apply to my work, offering me the opportunity for ongoing growth and development as a professional.

• Do you ever have 'bad hair' days?

  As a psychologist, I am only human and can have days where I feel more challenged than others. However, it is important for me to maintain a professional demeanor and provide the best care possible for my clients, regardless of how I am feeling on a particular day. I have strategies in place to help me manage any personal challenges that may arise so that they do not interfere with my ability to provide effective therapy.

• What do you think is the most significant problem we face, in the world today?

  I believe that the most significant problem we face in the world today is the widespread prevalence of mental health issues. As we know, depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders have become increasingly common, however access to mental health care is still limited. This creates a significant barrier to individual and societal well-being, as untreated mental health issues can lead to a range of negative outcomes, such as decreased quality of life, decreased productivity, and increased social and economic costs. Addressing this problem requires a comprehensive approach that involves not only improved access to mental health care but also efforts to reduce stigma, increase public awareness, and promote mental health and well-being.

• Can you share the name of a book, film, song, event or work of art that inspires you?

  There are many books, films, and works of art that inspire me and my work as a psychologist. One that particularly stands out is Viktor Frankl's "Man's Search for Meaning." The book explores the human search for purpose and meaning in life, even in the midst of extreme suffering and hardship. It is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the human spirit, and it inspires me to help my clients find meaning and purpose in their own lives.