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 matters 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:
- Feelings of loneliness, isolation, depression and moodiness
- Emotional stress or anxiety
- Child behavior problems
- Unexplained fatigue
- Sleep and eating disturbances
- Excessive alcohol or drug use
- Family conflict or tension
- Divorce or separation
- 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
For Additional Articles
View “Teen Tragedies” 12-2009
View “Holiday Stress” 11-2009
View “Handcuffed by Despair” 02-2009
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Referral Sources
So what is available out there for teenagers today? Resources are limited by the economy and the recession as well. However, there are some services for teens feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or simply lost. Most of our school districts provide some school wide counseling. This on-site, individual therapy is free and convenient and is tailored directly to the age group. A wonderful starting point for all teens, referrals can also be made to sliding scale clinics in our community for more extensive work. Groups for teens are also often held at school sites by these same therapeutic professionals. Subjects can range from conflict resolution, anger management, bullying, eating disorders, self esteem workshops, grief and loss, dealing with divorce and social skills among many others. Mentoring Programs are also popular at some sites that partner students with one another to form a support system. Parenting classes are an excellent option for parents and guardians to learn how to communicate better and how to support healthy choices and lifestyles. We need to work hard to put in place a structure that notices when teenagers need help. We need to step up and provide resources to help these kids when they need it.
RESOURCES
Almaden Valley Counseling Service
Sliding scale fee- based upon ability to pay —no waiting list
Telephone#: (408) 997-0200
6529 Crown Blvd. Suite D
San Jose, CA 95120
Y.W.C.A. Counseling Clinic
Sliding scale fee- based upon ability to pay—wait list
Telephone#: (408) 295-4011 ext.259
375 S. Third St.
San Jose, CA 95112
Bill Wilson Center
Sliding scale fee- based upon ability to pay—wait list
Telephone#: 408-243-0200
3490 The Alameda
Santa Clara, CA 95050
TELEPHONE HOTLINES
24-7 Teen Line Telephone#: 1-888-247-7717
Teenage Health Resource Line Telephone#: 1-888-711-8336
California Youth Crisis Hotline Telephone#: 1-800-843-5200
Suicide & Crisis Hotline Telephone#: 1-408-279-3312
How You Can Help
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Contact Us
Almaden Valley
Counseling Center
6529 Crown Blvd., Suite D
San Jose, CA 95120
Phone: (408) 997-0200
Fax: (408) 997-0711
