Health Topics for Mental and Emotional Health

Department of Psychiatry

Therapy can help

How many times have you wanted to talk to someone about a problem without that person telling you what to do? How many times have you wanted someone who would just listen until you figured things out for yourself? How many times have you wished you could talk to someone who could be objective or would not judge you? You can do all this by talking to a therapist.

There are many types of mental health professionals. The most common are clinical psychologists, clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists, and psychiatrists. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor and can prescribe medication. There are many different styles of therapy. If you do not feel comfortable with a counselor or therapist, do not give up on counseling. Try another counselor or therapist instead. If you try several therapists and are not comfortable, the problem may be partly with you! Maybe it is hard for you to trust someone, or your expectations are not realistic. If this happens, mention it to the therapist.

Depression, anxiety, suicidal feelings, drug or alcohol abuse, eating disorders, sexual problems, sleep problems, anger, grief, and phobias are just some of the problems that can be helped with therapy. Family, couple, or relationship problems can also be worked out in therapy.

Friends and family are often great people to talk to. However, they are not mental health professionals. If you have a broken leg, you go to a physician. If you have a psychological problem, go to a mental health professional. Everyone has these problems at times; they are nothing to be ashamed of.

Some health plans cover or help cover the cost of therapy. If you do not have insurance or if your insurance does not cover mental health there are other options. Many universities maintain training clinics for students getting degrees in mental health fields. These clinics charge very low fees and provide good therapists. Schools and universities have therapists available to assist students. Rape crisis centers can often give you information on getting therapy after a sexual assault, even if it occurred years before. If you need help, start making the telephone calls today.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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