The answer for deeply troubled, emotionally unstable, and psychologically dysfunctional people is no. However, seeing a psychotherapist does not automatically preclude becoming involved with Taoist meditation. Many undergo psychotherapy for support, not for treatment of severe mental aberrations for which hospitalization or outpatient psychiatric care is required. Those tending toward mental instability, though, may not be able to handle meditation.

In modern life, nearly all of us have to earn a living and interact with others. It is extremely difficult to withdraw for extended periods to the sanctuary of a monastery or ashram where all needs are taken care of while one's severe personal problems are worked through. Psychotherapy is much more appropriate for dealing with the dysfunction that derives from a level of emotional development where someone is incapable of taking responsibility for his or her own emotions or behavior.