There are different names and different paths of education and training for a person who provides psychotherapy (sometimes just referred to as therapy or counseling). A therapist can be a social worker, a family and/or marriage counselor, a professional counselor or other educated and trained professional. Most of these will have a license that has been issued after they have completed educational requirements, supervision by an experienced therapist, and passed a comprehensive licensing examination conducted in the State in which they will practice.
People are sometimes hesitant to seek help for a mental health concern, however most of the stigma that was long-ago associated with psychiatry and mental health counseling seems to be gone. There can be a sense of fear with setting up the first appointment if someone has never seen a therapist. It can feel vulnerable to consider talking to a stranger about deeply personal feelings, losses, difficult memories or current stressful circumstances.
One important thing to know is that everyone has problems or concerns that could be helped with therapy. I have observed in my practice that many people feel alone in what they have experienced or how they are feeling; however, there is not a single person who has had a life without hurts, problems, and losses. It can also be helpful to know that most therapists have seen or are still seeing a therapist themselves. It is strongly recommended during the education and mentoring process that mental health professionals seek support for their own problems and concerns. This way there will not be as many barriers to their providing support for their clients. Someone who has not worked on their own issues may not be emotionally prepared to provide support for others.
Once you have done some research to locate a therapist (search the web, read information on their website, ask friends, ask your doctor) you can call to set up an initial visit. You should expect your therapist to help you feel comfortable and at ease with any nervousness you may have. He or she will have some forms for you to sign about treatment, insurance, etc. and will ask questions to help you identify concerns for which you are seeking treatment. If you do not feel a connection with your therapist during this visit it is ok. You may want to try another visit, or your therapist can refer you to another clinician. Hopefully this will not be a concern and you can schedule another visit to discuss your future treatment plan. You and your therapist will work together to set goals and discuss methods of treatment that will be helpful to treat your individual concerns and symptoms.
There are numerous methods of treatment for anxiety, depression, grief, physical pain, adjustment to life changes, post traumatic stress disorder and other concerns. If your issues are outside of the scope of practice for your therapist, he or she should refer you to a specialist to help with your specific needs. Your therapist may also refer you back to your primary care provider or a psychiatrist for a medication evaluation.
If you are considering therapy for yourself, just pick up the phone and make a call. The process should be easy and unintimidating! You should feel comfortable, accepted, and at ease during the process of getting started and continuing with therapy. Good wishes!
Gayla Partin, LISW-CP, Counseling Sumter LLC, 9/23/2019