How many times have you wanted to talk to someone about a problem without that person telling you what to do? How many times have you wanted someone who would just listen until you figured things out for yourself? How many times have you wished you could talk to someone who could be objective or who would not judge you? You can do all this by talking to a counsellor or a therapist.
There are many types of mental health professionals. The most common are clinical psychologists, clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists, and psychiatrists. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor and is the only one that can prescribe medication. There are many different styles of therapy. If you do not feel comfortable with a counsellor or therapist, do not give up on counselling. Try another counsellor or therapist instead. See your local doctor for an appropriate referral to a counsellor in your area. .
You may find it difficult to trust someone, or your expectations about what you can achieve with therapy may not be realistic. If you are unsure about your progress or feel frustrated or unhappy with the process, discuss it with your therapist.
Depression, anxiety, suicidal feelings, drug or alcohol abuse, eating disorders, relationship or sexual problems, sleep problems, anger, grief, and phobias are just some of the problems that can be helped with counselling. Family, couple, and other relationship problems can be worked through with counselling.
Friends and family are often great people to talk to. However, they are not mental health professionals. If you have a broken leg, you go to a doctor. If you have a psychological problem, go to a mental health professional. Everyone has these problems at times; they are nothing to be ashamed of.
Some health insurance companies cover or help cover the cost of counselling, especially for children. Counselling is also available through your local public hospital. Some universities maintain training clinics for students getting degrees in mental health fields. These clinics charge very low fees and provide excellent counselling. Schools and universities have counsellors available to assist students. Rape crisis centres can often give you information about counselling after a sexual assault, even if it occurred years before. If you need help, start making the telephone calls today.
Article #6715
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