Resources

Finding the Right Professional Help

When you make the choice to seek professional help, recognize that you become a consumer of a service and have the right to ask questions. Consider looking for a professional who meets the following characteristics:

• Understands and respects your values. When you choose to seek help, you get to help determine the desired outcomes. Find a professional who respects client self-determination, or your ability to choose what you want to get out of the therapy, treatment, or other forms of help.

• Can explain his or her training and experience and how it relates to your needs. Some qualified professionals include licensed marriage and family therapists, licensed clinical social workers, psychiatrists, psychologists, professional counselors, and so on.

• Has sessions that are right for you. Consider the length, cost, and frequency of each session and other factors as you decide what fits your needs.

• Is willing to consult with your Church leader on your progress, if you desire. This includes offering suggestions on how he or she and your leader can work together to help you.

Goals, Benefits, and Risks

You are more likely to meet your goals when you understand the nature and limitations of counseling. Counseling is intended to help you learn how to understand and influence your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Many people experience improvement or resolve their concerns through the counseling process. Ultimately, establishing a relationship of trust will be vital to making progress in therapy. Pay attention to your initial emotional response when you talk with the professional. Trust yourself and your judgment as you look for someone who will be a good fit for your needs and personality. If you don’t feel comfortable, keep looking. Although counseling outcomes cannot be guaranteed, your commitment to the process will greatly influence how beneficial it is for you.