Psychotic Symptoms
What is psychosis?
Psychosis is a condition that affects the way the brain processes information, causing people to lose touch with reality. Folks in a psychotic episode will generally have trouble distinguishing what is real and what is not. This may look like experiencing delusions or hallucinations, but can also appear as things like aggression, not being able to think clearly, or incoherent speech.
Psychosis is a symptom, not a disorder. Psychotic symptoms can appear with mood disorders such as major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder. Psychotic symptoms can also be the main features of a disorder, like schizophrenia.
How I Can Help
When someone experiences a psychotic episode, it can be scary for them and those around them. I utilize a multidisciplinary approach to psychotic symptoms, using several types of psychotherapy and consulting with other professionals in the client’s life. I emphasize educating the client and their loved ones on what psychosis may look like, and how to stay safe while experiencing symptoms.