HOW TO GET AND CHOOSE A THERAPIST
By Gourika Mandal
It’s a very known fact that depressive disorder (also known as depression) is a common mental disorder. It involves a depressed mood or loss of pleasure or interest in activities for long periods of time. It sucks the joy out of life. It is important to get help during this; support and love is crucial for recovery. Treatments usually include therapy, medication for severe cases and simple changes in lifestyle for mild ones. If depression worsens, it is important to seek help from the healthcare professional. And it is important to know that the first therapist you go to might not fit your needs. It takes a little time and patience to find the therapist that suits your needs and situations. Here are some tips to find the right one!
PLAN YOUR GOALS
It is very important to know what you want to gain from therapy. If you are dealing with depression, it is important to find one that specializes in dealing with depressive episodes and such. If you feel like you need medications, you have to approach a psychiatrist.
ASK A FRIEND
This is the simplest one and the easiest way. Ask your friends, colleague, classmates and family members (people who have gone to therapy and people you trust). Referrals can be very helpful but it is important to keep in mind that your needs might be different than your friend’s. Keep looking even if the therapist your friend suggested did not work out!
FOLLOW YOUR GUTS
If you feel like that you are not compatible with your therapist or that they aren’t “getting” you, it’s a sign that you need to see a different therapist. It’s important to have a strong positive connection (not friendship) so, that you feel comfortable sharing with them. If they are talking more about themselves, then it is also a red flag. They aren’t supposed to be judgmental or impersonal. It’s important to put yourself first. A therapist is supposed to be a safe space!
THERE ISNT ANY IMPROVEMENT
Therapy takes time, of course. It is a slow process, you see the positive changes gradually. But, if it’s been months and you still don’t feel different, it’s important to switch therapists. Tanushree Rana who has been in therapy for the last five years for depression and anxiety said, “It felt pointless to go to therapy at one point. And I kept coming out of the office, disappointed and unsatisfied. That is when I knew I had to switch. Therapy is supposed to make you feel good.”
The thing with recovery is that it is a long, tiring process. It is important to keep at it, no matter what because the end results will be worth it!
