Many people may not know where to look for a therapist.
It can be an intimidating process as it means that we are admitting to seeking help.
In our context, seeking help seems to be a weakness.
However, is this really true? Consider this, if one experiences intense emotional distress, e.
g.
depression, stress or anxiety, and choose to deal with it themselves, the actions produce by the distraught thoughts would more than likely produce counter effective solutions and possibly create even more frustration.
On the other hand, when a good therapist is sought before the onset of a larger problem, one or two pieces of quality information may just steer the mind in a better direction which produces healthier and wiser perspectives.
Henceforth, looking for a therapist is a courageous, constructive and positive thing to do in one's life.
Benefits of finding a good therapist A therapist can act as a supportive and caring professional to help you through whatever is going on in your life.
Because we seek therapy for deeply personal and often hurtful problems, it is important to find someone you like and respect.
Types of Therapists There are various professionals that may be able to help, they are able to contribute to our mental well-being in one way or another.
Psychiatrists: These are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental or psychiatric illnesses.
They have medical training and are able to prescribe drugs.
They are also train in psychotherapy which aims to change a person's behaviours or thoughts patterns.
Psychologists: These are experts in psychology.
They study the human mind and human behaviour and are also trained in counselling, psychotherapy and psychological testing - which can help uncover emotional problems which you may not have realise you have.
Counsellors: These are trained professionals who can help a wide range of problems including depression, addiction and substance abuse, suicidal impulses, stress management, self-esteem issues, issues of aging, emotional health, family, parenting, martial and other kind of relationship problems.
Online therapists: an online therapist is either a trained counsellor or psychologist who has a strong background in face-to-face therapy before providing advice online.
Obtaining referrals for a therapist is always a good idea.
A friend, co-worker, or family member might recommend someone.
You can also ask your doctor for referral.
It will be good to interview a few therapists before settling on one.
This might help you sense whom you feel most comfortable with.
Meeting your therapist for the first time online or face-to-face Here are some questions which may be helpful for you to understand if the therapist is suitable for you 1.
What are his or her credentials? Where did they get their education? Where have they worked before? What is their job related experience? 2.
Does this person have any experience working with people with your specific issues? 3.
What treatment methods does this person use? 4.
When and how often do you meet? 5.
Any questions you feel would be important to ask your therapist to help you feel comfortable seeing him or her.
Questions to ask yourself after the initial meeting 1.
Did you feel this person genuinely cares about you? 2.
Is this a person you can come to trust given the time and opportunity? 3.
Did the therapist put you at ease? If you're embarrassed about asking for help, get over it.
Get past the stigma.
The outcome is too important.
There is nothing wrong with seeking therapy services.
Just as in sometimes we catch a nasal flu, we may at times catch a flu bug in our mind too.
With the correct amount of rest, and advice sought, with healthy action taken, the chances of recovery will be very high.