Psychologists are highly trained to integrate their knowledge of current research and best practices, use their relevant training and clinical expertise, and obtain information about the specifics of an individual’s life in making clinical decisions, implementing treatment plans, and developing a therapeutic alliance to achieve positive outcomes. The effectiveness of any psychological intervention is influenced by an individual’s unique characteristics - such as their personality, self-awareness, developmental history and life stage, genetics, experiences, strengths and ‘blind spots,’ ability to function, perception of support, family and close relations, sociocultural factors, and readiness to engage and change in psychotherapy. 

Sometimes even normal developmental or life events (i.e., when children leave home, or making a commitment to relationships) can unsettle or cause uneasiness in a person....

Sometimes situations or contexts change (i.e., change in jobs, birth of child, or divorce) and may destabilize or upset a person.... 

Sometimes the person's emotions or moods (i.e., stress, depression, anxiety, or unhappiness) make life unpredictable or more difficult....

Disappointments, hurts, rivalries, differing views or unmet needs frequently cause discord or isolation. Additionally unexpressed or misunderstood feelings and needs can negatively affect relationships….

Individuals change over time as they go through stages, planned and unplanned life events, or crises. People also are influenced by their relationships, interests, education, careers, events, and their perceptions of these experiences. When individuals do not positively cope with changes in their own lives or in the lives of those people close to them, then severe stress or strain may occur and adversely impact them psychologically, physically, or socially, and affect their ability to function in various areas of their lives. Psychologists are effective in guiding individuals to adapt positively.