How to pick a mental health professional?

[RaKroma]

I need tips on finding a mental health professional that won't be a waste of time and money and actually will help. I know I can google research but I want advice from people with personal experiences to guide to a right direction. Where to start with psychiatrist or a psychologist? I know a psych Dr. prescribes meds and the other just talks. Is there a difference between psychologist and a licensed clinical social worker in terms of training and their abilities? Should I go with a female or male? I feel like I'd be more comfortable and open with females and they're more compassionate? But I wonder if it's better to have an LGBT friendly male one who will relate better?

 

[gaypiper]

You need to interview them individually. You'll also want to know their credentials; there are a lot of phonies out there. If all you want is talk therapy, look for someone with at least an MSW/CAC. Make certain they're lgbt supportive because there are still quacks out there who will try to "cure" you. If you have insurance, all of the counselors, psychiatrists and psychologists that they list will have passed stringent requirements and undergone years of training in order to be certified by the insurance companies. Beyond that, you can generally tell in an interview if you "click." Hope this helps.

 

[KaraBulut]

You need to interview them individually. You'll also want to know their credentials; there are a lot of phonies out there.

Adding to gaypiper's response...

It depends largely on what kind of issue the person is looking for help with.

Psychiatrists usually get involved when there's an acute issue- a patient who is severely incapacitated by mental illness such as schizophrenia, has a complicated condition like Borderline Personality Disorder or who has attempted suicide where the laws mandate a psychiatrist intervene.

On the other hand, if the person is looking for someone to help them sort through their issues and work through problems, a masters prepared social worker (MSW), nurse (MSN ARNP) or psychologist is usually a better choice.

Psychiatrists rely heavily on medication and the insurance reimbursement structure doesn't really encourage psychiatrists to do individual therapy. Individual therapy has pretty much been delegated to the MSWs, ARNPs and psychologists.

The gender, sexuality and other traits of the therapist are not really as important as their experience. They should have a masters degree at minimum. They should be experienced in therapy and preferably in an area where the person needs help (e.g. addictive disease, sexuality issues).

But the most important feature is that their style of therapy needs to be compatible with the patient. Meet the therapist. Think of it as an interview. Talk about what you want. Understand how the therapist plans on helping you. You need to feel comfortable with the therapist. You need to feel like it's going to be worth the time and money for you to engage them.

 

[RaKroma]

So basically I should avoid psychiatrists (I'm not suicidal or have 10 personalities) and go with a therapist route. I wish I weren't such a nonbeliever of pscych field in general. I haven't tried and I already feel dismissive about their kumbaya sessions being helpful. I'm seeking help for depressive moods and anxiety for most part.

 

[altlover85]

So basically I should avoid psychiatrists (I'm not suicidal or have 10 personalities) and go with a therapist route. I wish I weren't such a nonbeliever of pscych field in general. I haven't tried and I already feel dismissive about their kumbaya sessions being helpful. I'm seeking help for depressive moods and anxiety for most part.

You might want to look for someone who specializes in cognitive therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy. Generally they focus on changing your thought processes and how you view things, which you may find helpful. Of course, you may not, but it's just a suggestion.

 

[KaraBulut]

So basically I should avoid psychiatrists (I'm not suicidal or have 10 personalities) and go with a therapist route. I wish I weren't such a nonbeliever of pscych field in general. I haven't tried and I already feel dismissive about their kumbaya sessions being helpful. I'm seeking help for depressive moods and anxiety for most part.

The mental health field has its issues and unfortunately, there are quite a few inadequately prepared "therapists" who give the qualified professionals a bad rap.

Just to emphasize something mentioned in a couple of the earlier posts regarding interviewing therapist to find the therapist that is right for you:

There are lots of different philosophies and approaches and theories about psychotherapy. That's why it's important that you meet with the therapist and find a therapist that has a style that you are comfortable with. There are patients who like the "talk therapy" approach (or as you called it, the kumbayah approach). Other patients like a more aggressive, confrontive approach. Others may be more comfortable with an objective, behavioral approach.

A good therapist is like a good personal trainer. You engage them to help you get structure and a plan but ultimately, it's up to you to develop the goals and to make the effort. Neither a personal trainer or therapist is there to do the "heavy lifting" for you- ultimately, it's your commitment to self-improvement that will make the difference, whether it's training your muscles or working on mental health issues.

 

[DualPurpose]

No, don't avoid psychiatrists. Sure, most psychiatrists rely primarily on medication, and yes, the insurance reimbursements are mostly to blame, yet there are still plenty of psychiatrists who do psychotherapy, and there are very many who are highly trained in cognitive behavioral therapies and the such.

The point I always make is: once someone is suitably qualified, i.e. a psychiatrist, psychologist or a social worker, then you pick which ever one you make a connection with and like best. The connection really is the most important part.

And psychiatrists can be very helpful with depressive moods and anxiety. But in your interview, make sure you state that you don't want to go on medication from the get-go and then you'll have no problems.

Focus on the connection.