<<return to table of contentsIf you've already decided you want to see a therapist, your first step would be to decide what type of treatment you want. Donna Gutierrez, a psychiatrist in Torrance, California, explains the different types of therapists:
A marriage, family and child counselor (MFCC) is a therapist who treats temporary problems. For example, you may be upset over a breakup or stressed out at school. These counselors have at least a bachelor's degree and sometimes a master's degree.
A social worker has a master's degree and many social workers have special training with family and adolescence. A social worker may come into the home to deal with family problems, such as anger management or dealing with a parent's illness.
Psychiatrists and psychologists both have PhDs (doctor of philosophy). However, a psychiatrist also has an M.D. (doctor of medicine) and can prescribe medication, such as anti-depressants.
There are many different approaches to psychology, and you should be aware that not all psychologists use the same methods. Here are a few types:
Cognitive-Behavioral Psychology (CBT) is a type of therapy that aims to change destructive thinking patterns or behaviors, by tracking information. For example, you may use a workbook to track or pinpoint thoughts/actions that make you feel the most depressed. Then, you would work with your therapist on ways to avoid or deal with those triggers.
Insight Orientated Therapy is therapy that does tries to change behaviors and thinking by digging into your subconscious. This therapy usually does not use workbooks or trackers, and instead relies on conversations between the doctor and patient. The therapist tries to interpret what the patient tells him/her. This is usually longer and more intensive than cognitive therapy.
Psycho-Analytic Therapy is a type of therapy that was developed by Sigmund Freud. It's a study of the unconscious mind and requires a big commitment by those who decide to go this route. It can often require several sessions a week and involves very intensive work.
Group Therapy is when a group of people get together to work through similar problems. One type of group therapy is family therapy, where you and your family go to a therapist together. Another type of group therapy is where teenagers who have similar problems (like eating disorders or self-injury disorders) have sessions together. There are also camps, boarding schools and specialized facilities available where you can receive group therapy along with individual therapy.
Sometimes you might not even need a doctor to help with the stress in your life. Some activities can be very therapeutic--such as music or theatre. Joining an orchestra or the school play might be just what you need. It really depends on what you're seeking treatment for.
