Biggest Bang for the Buck:Part One ~ When to Seek Help

This is part one of a four part series on how to find a therapist and make the most of your therapy sessions.

• Part Two: Interview Questions
• Part Three: Help Yourself
• Part Four: Ending Therapy and Saying Good-Bye

A question I hear from my friends and acquaintances is, “Should I make an appointment with a therapist?”  If you are considering therapy finding a good fit will help the process.  Hence, asking yourself, “What do I want to work on?” will help guide you in the selection process of finding a therapist.

The decision to see a therapist is a very personal decision. Many times, people choose therapy during times of stress and emotional pain, and it may also be when you want to grow and mature. More and more people search out therapy for personal growth based on positive psychology. You can also consider a pastor, priest, rabbi or shaman for guidance.

The following are issues or experiences during which you might seek therapy:

1. Undue, prolonged anxiety
2. Relationship issues
3. Depression or mood swings
4. School problems or employment issues
5. Loneliness
6. Grief and loss
7. Difficulties in relationships
8. Life events: marriage, divorce, death, parenthood, blended family issues, retirement, aging process, adolescence, etc.
9. Chronic physical illness caused by tension and stress
10. Problems following traumatic events such as accidents, childhood abuse, etc.
11. Problems with domestic violence or other forms of abuse
12. Stress in the face of chronic or terminal illness or other health problems
13. Constant worries or obsessions
14. Excessive anger, frustration, or guilt with no resolution
15. Self-destructive thoughts and behavior
16. Problems with drugs or alcohol
17. Personal Growth
18. Trauma, violence and abuse
19. Sexual and intimacy problems
20. Feelings of being constantly overwhelmed

The decision to call a therapist may be a difficult. However, it is viewed as a strength based decision to be able to realize that not knowing the answers to all your life questions is normal. Whatever your reason for seeking therapy, a therapist will listen to your concerns and help you decide upon the most appropriate course of action.

If you are considering therapy and would like more information or a referral to someone with a particular speciality I would be glad to talk with you.

If you have a question please leave a comment. Also, if you have anything to you would like to add to the list let me know. If you would like to email me directly I can answer your question in a more private format. Click the “Contact Brenda”  tab above on the menu bar to view my information.