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ARTICLES OF
INTEREST
When To See A Therapist
People are usually well versed about going to see a doctor for various physical symptoms.
The same is not true for seeking help when the problem is the mind, not the
body. Deciding whether to see a psycho-therapist can be a new and
intimidating experience. This occurs because "seeing a
counselor" sometimes carries with it the stigma of some sort of
failure. On the contrary, the decision to seek therapy carries with it a
sign of strength.
Most mental health problems are maters of
degree. Fears, aggressive behavior, hyperactivity, and depression can all
be normal for certain circumstances. In general, if the behaviors are
beginning to interfere with everyday life, it is time to think about seeking
professional help.
Some distress signals where therapists can be of
help are:
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Feelings of loneliness, isolation, depression
and moodiness
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Emotional stress or anxiety
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Child behavior problems
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Unexplained fatigue
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Sleep and eating disturbances
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Excessive alcohol or drug use
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Family conflict or tension
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Divorce or separation
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Illness/death
What Happens In Therapy
Therapy involves a special relationship between people. The therapist
receives monetary remuneration in return for a close interpersonal relationship
in which the client's personal needs are paramount. Through a variety of
techniques, the client is helped to look at the issues that are of
concern. It is a process, and needs a commitment both in time and
energy. For children, play therapy is often used. Props, games, art,
sand tray and role play are used to act out issues.
Who Should Be Seen
Often one member of the family exhibits symptoms and prompts the family to seek
out a therapist. The desire is to have that person
"fixed". Usually, there will be greater success if the entire family
becomes involved, since changes in one member affects the other members.
Who To See
There are a variety of professionals who are trained in many therapeutic
techniques for dealing with human behavior. A psychiatrist is a physician
who, along with providing therapy, can prescribe medicine. A psychologist,
usually a PhD, can provide diagnostic testing, as well as therapy. A
Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) and a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) are both
masters level clinicians who can treat the majority of emotional problems.
Intern clinicians are therapists earning their hours toward state board
licensure.
Where To Go
Many insurance programs dictate who you can see and for how long. This can
make it difficult when it comes to choosing. If you have a choice,
referrals from friends often works well. Using agencies, such as AVCS, can
be helpful since they are conveniently located, have flexible hours and, most
importantly, are affordable (sliding scale fee based on income). At AVCS,
our MFT Intern Clinicians see ALL ages: individuals, couples, families
and our specialty - children and youth.
Article written by
Rocki Kramer, LCSW
Former
AVCS Executive Director
Parenting
Parenting Tips: Learn
to listen to what your kids say.
Avoid "maintenance talk." Did you do this? Did you do That?
Treat them with the same respect you want them to treat you with.
Pick you Battles.
Take a parenting Class:
Learning helpful parenting techniques is your insurance policy to easier
parenting.
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Other Services
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Anger Education Workshops
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Counseling Service
