Life is unpredictable. Whether you’re feeling lost after the death of a loved one or simply overwhelmed by daily responsibilities and stresses, you might find that you need extra support in times of emotional duress. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, you’re not alone: more than 30 million Americans need help coping with feelings and problems that seem unmanageable. But how do you know when to seek therapy, and how do you go about choosing a therapist?
According to the American Psychological Association, you may want to consider therapy if:
You struggle to complete everyday activities: for instance, you have difficulty concentrating at work and are unable to carry out responsibilities effectively.
You experience a prolonged and overwhelming sense of sadness, hopelessness or helplessness which doesn’t seem to lift despite your efforts or changes in your circumstances.
You are constantly anxious, worried or stressed.
Your actions cause harm to yourself or others. This may be obvious or more subtle: for instance, you might drink too much and become physically or emotionally aggressive, or you might spend money excessively in an attempt to mitigate negative emotions.
If you’ve decided to give therapy a try, choosing your therapist is a critical step in ensuring you’re able to receive the treatment and support that will be most beneficial. Schedule a consultation with potential therapists to learn more about their credentials and find out about their previous experiences and approach to therapy. Ask about their experience working with individuals in circumstances or emotional states similar to your own, and what types of treatments they tend to recommend to clients. Most importantly, assess your own comfort levels with potential therapists. In order for therapy to be most effective, you’ll want to find someone you feel you can be open with.
Choosing your therapist might be the most important step you take towards improved well-being and better quality of life. If you live in St. Paul MN or the surrounding areas, call Ben Wolf at (612) 217-4994 to schedule a consultation. Ben Wolf’s caring and individualized approach toward therapy is geared toward empowering and encouraging clients to develop their personal strengths and rebuild confidence. You deserve peace of mind, vitality and a fuller life — take the first step to caring for yourself and reach out to Ben Wolf’s office today.
