When should I go to the psychologist?

Emotional well-being is as important as physical health, but many people are unsure about when it is advisable to see a psychologist. Identifying the warning signs and understanding the benefits of psychological therapy can make a difference to quality of life. In addition, doubts often arise as to whether to see a psychologist or a psychiatrist.

For those interested in the study of mental health, the degree in Psychology in Madrid  offers the necessary training to work in the field of psychotherapy. In addition, there are also options with Universidad Europea to study the degree in psychology in Valencia, Alicante and Malaga.

Signs that it's time to see a psychologist

You may be asking yourself though, “When should I go to the psychologist?”. There are certain signs that may indicate the need to see a psychology professional. Some of the most common are:

• Persistent emotional changes: feelings of sadness, anxiety or irritability that last for weeks or months and affect mood.
• Difficulties in everyday life: problems concentrating, making decisions or carrying out daily activities normally can be the result of an unmanaged emotional burden.
• Conflictive relationships: if arguments are frequent or there are difficulties in communicating with others, therapy can provide tools to improve coexistence.
• Constant stress and pressure: when work or academic demands become unbearable, they can affect mental wellbeing and generate symptoms such as insomnia or muscle tension.
• Recurrent negative thoughts: if self-destructive ideas, excessive guilt or intrusive thoughts appear, seeking professional help is a priority.
• Traumatic events: situations such as the loss of a loved one, a separation or an accident can generate prolonged emotional distress that requires specialised support.

When to go to the psychologist and when to go to the psychiatrist?

One of the most frequent questions is the difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist, and in which cases to go to each one.

• The psychologist helps to understand and manage thoughts, emotions and behaviour through therapy. They do not prescribe medication but rather work with psychological tools to improve well-being and encourage positive changes in the person's life.
• The psychiatrist is a doctor specialising in mental health, trained to diagnose and treat disorders with drugs. Their intervention is usually necessary in cases of serious disorders such as schizophrenia, major depression or bipolar disorders.

In many cases, the psychologist and the psychiatrist work together to offer comprehensive care to the patient.

Myths about going to the psychologist

There are erroneous beliefs that can prevent a person from seeking psychological help. It is important to dispel them to normalise access to therapy:

• ‘Going to the psychologist is only for those with serious disorders.’ Many people go to therapy to improve their well-being without the need for a clinical diagnosis.
• ‘Talking to friends is enough.’ Although social support is important, a professional offer specialised and objective tools for the management of emotions.
• ‘Therapy doesn't work.’ The effectiveness of psychotherapy is backed by scientific studies and has been shown to be useful in improving the mental health of those who receive it.
• ‘Only the weak seek help.’ Recognising the need for psychological support is an act of responsibility and self-care.

What is the first session with a psychologist like?

Going to therapy for the first time can be a bit daunting. However, knowing what to expect helps you to face the experience with greater peace of mind.

During the first session, the psychologist usually carries out an initial assessment, in which they ask questions about the current situation, the emotional state and the reasons for consulting. They may also inquire into the personal history and background to better understand the patient's context.

In addition, therapeutic objectives are established and the techniques that may be used in the treatment are explained. This session allows for the creation of a safe space of trust and marks the beginning of the process of change.

It is important to remember that therapy is a process and that results are not immediate. However, many people experience relief from feeling heard and understood from the first consultation.

Benefits of going to psychological therapy

Receiving psychological support has numerous advantages, among which we could highlight:

• Better emotional regulation: it helps to identify, understand and manage emotions in a healthy way.
• Reduction of stress and anxiety: it provides skills to face difficult situations with greater calm.
• Improvement in interpersonal relationships: it facilitates communication and conflict resolution, while strengthening bonds with others.
• Greater self-awareness: allows for a better understanding of one's own needs, values and objectives, favouring personal development.
• Strategies for problem solving: teaches techniques for approaching difficulties from a more adaptive perspective.

Studying psychology: a degree that leads to a career with impact

Training in psychology is more than just a degree—it's a path to truly making a difference in people’s lives. At Universidad Europea, we offer the Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology across our four campuses as mentioned: Madrid, Valencia, Alicante, and Malaga, giving students the flexibility to study where it suits them best while receiving the same high-quality education.

What sets us apart? At UE, you'll be immersed in an international, interdisciplinary environment with access to advanced simulation facilities, expert faculty, and real-world practice from day one. Our commitment to innovation and personalised learning ensures that every student is prepared for the evolving challenges of psychological practice.

And for those just starting their academic journey, our Health Science Foundation Course provides a solid stepping stone, designed to build the knowledge and skills needed to transition smoothly into the Psychology degree.

If you’re ready to start a career that empowers, supports, and transforms lives—Universidad Europea is your place to begin.