REVIEWS

Side Effects of Psychotherapy and Coping Strategies

  • WANG Juncai ,
  • DENG Xiaoyi ,
  • WANG Rui ,
  • HUANG Shuxuan ,
  • YUAN Yonggui
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  • 1School of Humanities, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China;
    2Department of Psychosomatic Medicine, Zhongda Hospital Affiliated to Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China

Online published: 2025-09-03

Abstract

Psychotherapy plays a crucial role in the intervention of psychological disorders, yet research on its side effects remains relatively limited. Exploring the side effects of psychotherapy is of great importance for optimizing treatment options, standardizing clinical practices, and improving safety. Psychotherapy side effects refer to unintended events that occur under the premise of proper treatment procedures, with overlap and distinction from adverse reactions and treatment incidents. These side effects manifest in various forms, and their incidence may be underestimated due to multiple factors. Patient characteristics, therapist factors, and treatment modalities all influence the occurrence of psychotherapy side effects. Currently, multiple tools are available for evaluating these side effects, each with its own strengths and limitations. In terms of countermeasures, therapists should carefully screen patients, ensure thorough informed consent, and consciously monitor the side effects during treatment. This article systematically reviews the concepts, incidence, influencing factors, and coping strategies related to psychotherapy side effects, aiming to provide references for advancing research and improving clinical practice.

Cite this article

WANG Juncai , DENG Xiaoyi , WANG Rui , HUANG Shuxuan , YUAN Yonggui . Side Effects of Psychotherapy and Coping Strategies[J]. Psychological Communications, 2025 , 8(2) : 137 -144 . DOI: 10.12100/j.issn.2096-5494.225020

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