Therapy - Any tips?

[pequin]

(Hope I'm posting this in the correct place!) I'm thinking about going to a therapist for my weight issues as well as other things that have been going on in my life recently.

I've never actually been to a therapist, I'm a bit apprehensive about choosing one and just having to go to one in the first place.

Any tips?

 

[Iwan naloseit]

If you don't mind my asking what kind of other issues. There are therapists that specialize. If you don't feel comfortable posting just PM me. I do alot of referrals in my line of work, I can probably help you find the help that you need.
I would look in the phone book for a behavioral health center in your area, usually they are run by non-profits and if they can't help you they can point you in the right direction. If you don't have insurance there are probably places in your area that have a slidding scale program.
Check your local resources and find out whats available to you. And ask someone you know that has seen a therapist and see if they have recommendations. Often times they can steer you clear of quacks.

 

[maleficent]

Honestly... finding a good therapist is sometimes like buying a car... you really have to shop around... and find the one that's right for you.. the first one you find might be not a good fit.

I tried a few years ago... and it was a horror show.. therapist #1 - wrote me a prescription for an anti depressant in the first 10 minutes of sitting there. (this was based on the reccommendation of someone -- i didn't want "happy" pills.) #2 wanted to talk about my sex life. #3 wanted to do hypnosis to get me past my blocks on why i don't like talking. I went in with a specific purpose and none listened to me so i got frustrated and gave up. I sound like a know it all and maybe these doctors weren't the idiots i think they were -but i can pinpoint in my past where my shyness, and confidence issues started... I know what triggered it and wanted help getting past it... but nope... none really asked the right questions as far as I was concerned.

Get a few reccommadations either from your health plan, your family doctor, or even family or friends if you are comfortable asking. And set up interviews... Go with your gut instinct and go wtih the person who makes you feel comfortable... and i wish you all the best.

 

[pequin]

If you don't mind my asking what kind of other issues.

The reason I think I need counseling is that everything is changing but me. I feel like I'm stuck. I'm nearly 26, no savings or job and I'm so shy that I rarely talk in public, I clam up. I've in the past had problems with depression and anxiety, I've taught myself to keep that in check but I tend to self medicate with food and with the resent break-up with ex, I realized that I am very controlling, I get mad easy and I am very self conscious and have very little confidence in myself or my abilities. And I tend to make excuses for myself.

I want to work through the problems and pills are just NOT an option. I'd really like to get my life on track again.

Thanks maleficent & Iwan naloseit for the suggestions.