Pathway Twelve

Professional Counseling

When dealing with depression and anxiety, it helps to have as many ears as possible to listen and understand what you are going through. Consider the following resources to be adjuncts to your system of family and friends.

One-on-one therapy includes a session (usually 30 or 50 minutes) with a licensed mental-health professional M.D. with a psychiatry specialty, Ph.D. psychologist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor, Pastoral Counselor, Marriage and Family Counselor, Certified Employee Assistance Professional, or Substance Abuse Counselor. Ask your other providers or your pastor for recommendations of a good counselor for your concerns.

Counseling groups include educational groups (e.g., groups that teach you about depression and what it looks like), psychotherapy or support groups, which focus on providing support and triaging to other resources without delving deeply into clinical issues. Both psycho-educational and support groups are not considered formal psychotherapy and do not necessarily require a clinical psychotherapy expert as a leader. Often, support groups are offered free of charge, and the same can be true for psycho-educational groups.

STEPS ON THE PATHWAY

• Seek recommendations for counseling from your family, friends, physician and clergy.
• Research different counselors and decide which is right for you.

If you need a guide to help you down the pathway, or if you feel that you need immediate assistance, call the Front Porch at 901.762.8558. For more detailed information about types of therapy, visit these links.*

www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies/index.shtml.

Psychiatrist vs. Psychologist: Learn the Difference

*These videos and links will give you access to information not produced by Methodist Healthcare.