If I were
depressed and seeking a therapist I would consider the following
factors:
- My gut reactions-is this someone I feel that I can like and
trust? Do I feel at ease? Do I have any reservations? Psychotherapy
is the one chance we get in modern life to tell the absolute
truth about ourselves. Is this person someone I feel can bear
that responsibility?
- References. Talk to friends, your minister, your doctor.
A casual professional relationship isn't a good reference. You
want to talk to someone who knows the therapist well-former
patients are best.
- The therapist's experience with depressed patients, including
familiarity with cognitive and interpersonal techniques, which
are recognized as especially effective with depression.
- The therapist's openness to medication as part of treatment.
- The therapist's willingness to be active and directive when
it's called for, not to assume that listening by itself is enough,
or that the patient's needs for advice or reassurance are childish
and should be ignored.
These last three factors
are things you should definitely ask directly of the therapist.
We are not gods, though some of us think so, and we will not be
offended by direct questions. If you find a therapist who is offended,
go find another therapist. As a matter of fact, it's best if you
can to see two or three people for an initial consultation, and
choose the one you feel can be most helpful.
If you, or someone you love,
might be suffering from depression, get help right away. Treatment
is effective and affordable. Talk to your health care provider
or call your local mental health clinic before a bad situation
becomes worse.
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