Which doctor is right for me?

If you’ve realized that you have a problem that neither you nor your support system of friends and relatives can fix, it may be time to turn to a professional for the care you need. With so many types of problems and professionals, though, making a decision as to who is best to see can seem overwhelming. If you’re like most people, you have probably considered visiting your general practitioner or family doctor for answers to your problem. While these types of professionals have a good understanding of general health issues and can prescribe medication, they are not necessarily the best way to approach specific problems related to mental health. Choosing a healthcare provider who works specifically with mental health issues will lead to better, more effective treatment which will improve your chances for a successful long-term recovery. Learning more about the different types of mental health professionals can help you become more directed on your path toward complete emotional wellness. The following list of mental health professionals will assist you in determining which type of provider is right for you.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who can both prescribe medication and perform psychotherapy. They tend to look more at the biological factors contributing to such problems as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders. They may look at a patient’s medical and family history, and they will most likely use lab tes ts as part of their diagnosis process. If a person needs to be admitted to the hospital for tes ts or observation, they may also do this as well.

Clinical Psychologists are PhDs who are able to asses and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. They handle both temporary crises arising in the face of high-stress situations as well as more severe, chronic conditions includin g borderline personality disorder and schizophrenia. Because they are not medical doctors, clinical psychologis ts are not able to prescribe medication, however they are able to perform psychotherapy. Some specialize in certain types of problems while others specialize in certain demographic groups such as children, the elderly, and members of the gay and lesbian community.

Counseling Psychologists are PhDs who help people recognize their own strengths and resources for use in coping with their problems. They see people as individuals with differences that make up who they are, and they help their patient’s realize how to use their gif ts to their advantage in all situations including work and personal relationships. They also study how these differences affect people’s psychological well-being.

Licensed Professional Counselors generally have graduate degrees in counseling or psychology, although they may have more education. They help people deal with issues that they have been unable to resolve on their own. Some of the issues they handle include substance abuse, stress management, grief and loss issues, suicidal feelings, and family and marital problems. They address these issues, develop plans for how the patient is to deal with them, and guide the patient through recovery. Once the patient is feeling more on track, counselors also help support them through maintenance with continuing wellness plans.

Once you decide which type of mental health professional will work best in your situation, you should keep a few things in mind. Make sure whoever you see is licensed by the state in which you live to provide the specific services being sought. Remember, too, that finding the right professional can sometimes be a process of trial and error. Make sure the person chosen is someone that you’re comfortable with and whose style meshes with your own core beliefs, values, and personality. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your feelings. Don’t push for a relationship with a professional who doesn’t seem to fit your unique needs just because you’re out of balance emotionally and don’t trust you decisions. If it doesn’t feel right, it won’t work. That’s not to say the process will be pleasant, but it should be comfortable.

Related Resources:

Talking to Your Doctor
What causes a chemical imbalance?
What is Cognitive Behavior Therapy?
Natural Alternatives That Help
Treatment: Anxiety, Depression, ADHD