Selecting a therapist is the initial step in combating any sort of mental illness. Therapy is a two way process and it is essential for you to find a therapist who can understand and guide you appropriately. It is also very important that you seek advice from someone you can trust and count upon. Since you will be sharing some of the most painful experiences of your life with your therapist, he/she must be able to build a rapport with you.

Therapy is often challenging but it can help you get over the mental agony and suffering you are going through. There are various steps for choosing a therapist that revolve around the severity of illness, your financial condition and method of treatment.

All professional therapists are bound to maintain the confidentiality of your sessions and are also legally bound to report matters of grave concern to the law such as threats to blow up public property or harm other individuals.

Steps for choosing a therapist:

It is essential for you to see your primary health care physician to rule out a medical cause of your problems. For instance, the loss of appetite or lethargy can also be the outcome of disorders such as thyroid or diabetes and mistaken for depression.

Once your physician states that the underlying cause for your problems is not medical, you must find out what mental health coverage is given under Medicare or your insurance policy. You must also cross check with your organization, if they will be paying for your healthcare coverage or have any concession or reimbursement plans.

Prior to selecting a good therapist, you must contact various hospitals, do your research on the internet or take referrals from your family physician.

Prior to making an appointment, you must call in to check their age, gender, ethnicity or religious background if these are important for you.

Proximity is a very important factor. Make sure that the therapist is conveniently located so that you can make it on time for all your appointments.

You must also inquire about the availability, timings and fees of the therapist.

You must ensure that the therapist has had past experience in helping individuals with similar problems. You can ask about their qualifications, credentials and experience.