I don't consider psychotherapy/psychology to be a hard science. It's an art. Although I know that I've made progress in areas of my life and feel that good therapeutic intervention has contributed to that progress, I'd never say that therapy is the sole cause of my progress. I know that maturity, life experiences, self-intervention learning certain skills (meditation, the value of physical exercise every single day, self-help reading and personal relationships--how they work and practicing good boundaries) have all been helpful in me growing up and being stronger emotionally and physically.

I do know that I've gone without therapy for most of my adult life but I've learned that when things are shaky for me emotionally, it's been helpful for me personally to have a neutral person (who is skilled and well trained) to help me sort through things. I don't do well with someone who wants to quickly change me or point out my faults psychologically; I do well with someone who gives me space to talk things out and come to my own recognition of what's going on for me emotionally. That is a gold mine for me, personally.