Essential insights for anyone looking to enhance their well-being and lead a more fulfilling life.
According to the Australian Government, more than 7.3 million Australians will experience mental illness at some point in their life and need help dealing with feelings and problems that seem beyond their control.
We may feel overwhelmed and need help dealing with our problems.
Issues with a marriage or relationship, a family situation or dealing with losing a job, the death of a loved one, depression, stress, burnout or substance abuse. Those losses and pressures of daily living can sometimes be significantly debilitating. Occasionally, we need outside help from a trained, licensed professional to work through these problems.
Through therapy, a psychologist can help you live a healthier, more productive life.
Barriers to Seeking Professional Help
Despite the benefits of therapy, many individuals hesitate to seek professional help, often suffering in silence or waiting until their mental health issues become severe.
Research indicates that approximately 60% of people with mental illness don’t receive the treatment they need.
A study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behaviour found that stigma, lack of perceived need, and belief in handling the problem on one’s own were the most common reasons for not seeking mental health treatment.
Furthermore, cultural and diversity barriers, such as differing beliefs about mental health, neurodiversity, and financial constraints, including lack of insurance coverage or high out-of-pocket costs, further contribute to the gap in accessing mental health services.
The consequences of delaying or avoiding therapy can be significant.
According to the World Health Organisation, untreated mental health conditions can lead to decreased quality of life, reduced productivity, strained relationships, and increased risk of physical health problems. Moreover, individuals who delay treatment for anxiety disorders are more likely to develop secondary conditions, such as depression or substance abuse.
The longer an individual waits to seek help, the more entrenched their mental health issues may become, potentially leading to more severe symptoms and requiring more intensive treatment. Early intervention is crucial, as it can prevent the escalation of mental health problems, improve overall well-being, and enhance an individual’s ability to cope with life’s challenges effectively.
You are prioritising mental well-being by taking the courageous step to seek therapy. Whether it’s for yourself or for those in your care who cannot make this decision independently, such as children, elderly loved ones, or family members with disabilities, you are demonstrating strength and compassion.
Those who seek help or facilitate access to mental health support for others advocate better mental health, build resilience, and develop tools to navigate life’s challenges. As you consider therapy for yourself or someone you care for, remember that you’re embarking on a transformative path towards a healthier, more fulfilling life for all involved.
You Should Consider Therapy If
- You feel an overwhelming and prolonged sense of helplessness and sadness, and your problems do not seem to get better despite your efforts and help from family and friends.
- You need help to carry out everyday activities. For example, you need help concentrating on work assignments, and your job performance is suffering as a result.
- You worry excessively, expect the worst or are constantly on edge.
- Your actions are harmful to yourself or others. For instance, you are drinking too much alcohol, abusing drugs or becoming overly argumentative and aggressive.
- You’re experiencing significant changes or transitions in your life (e.g., divorce, job loss, retirement) and are having trouble coping.
- You’re dealing with chronic health issues or pain that are affecting your mental well-being.
- You’re struggling with grief or loss and finding it difficult to move forward.
- You’re experiencing relationship difficulties or conflicts you can’t resolve alone.
- You’re having trouble managing stress or finding a work-life balance.
- You’re dealing with past trauma or abuse that’s impacting your current life.
What Is A Psychologist?
Psychologists specialise in psychological treatment and are highly trained professionals with expertise in human behaviour, mental health assessment, diagnosis and treatment, and behaviour change.
Psychologists work with patients to change their feelings and attitudes and help them develop healthier, more effective behaviour patterns.
Psychologists apply scientifically validated procedures to help people change their thoughts, emotions and behaviours.
Therapy is a collaborative effort between an individual and a psychologist. It provides a supportive environment for open, confidential discussion of concerns and feelings.
Psychologists consider maintaining your confidentiality paramount and will answer your questions about the rare circumstances when confidential information must be shared.
What To Consider When Making The Choice
Psychologists and clients work together.
The right match is essential.
Most psychologists agree that a necessary factor in determining whether or not to work with a particular psychologist – once that psychologist’s credentials and competence are established – is your level of personal comfort with that psychologist.
A good rapport with your psychologist is critical. Choose one with whom you feel comfortable and at ease.
Questions to Ask When Choosing a Psychologist
- Are you registered with the Psychology Board of Australia? How long have you been practising?
- What experience do you have in treating my specific concerns (e.g., anxiety, depression, relationship issues)?
- What are your areas of expertise and therapeutic approaches? Are they evidence-based for my problems?
- Does the psychologist employ a neuro-affirmative approach?
- What are your fees, and do you offer sliding scale options?
- Do you accept Medicare, private health insurance, or NDIS funding?
- How do you handle emergencies or crises between appointments?
- Do you offer telehealth options?
Financial Considerations
- Check your private health insurance coverage for mental health services.
- Consider out-of-pocket costs if not covered by insurance or government programs.
- Explore government-sponsored programs:
Medicare Better Access to Mental Health Care Program
National Disability Insurance Scheme (Registered NDIS providers for therapeutic supports)
Star4-Kids program (FREE for eligible children aged 3-12 years)
Other Important Factors
- Personal comfort and rapport with the psychologist
- Cultural competence and language preferences
- Accessibility of the psychologist’s office
- Professional boundaries and ethical practices
Credentials To Look For
Clinical psychologists are the most highly qualified and experienced mental health professionals in the field of psychology. Their rigorous training involves a comprehensive six-year university program, which includes:
Extensive practical experience in at least three different settings:
- Working with children and adolescents
- Working with adults
- Specialising in a specific area of psychological practice
Two years of supervised practice under an experienced Clinical Psychologist.
In-depth study and hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions during the final two years of their program.
This extensive training equips clinical psychologists with unparalleled expertise in understanding, assessing, and treating complex mental health issues across diverse populations.
Registered psychologists have completed a four-year university degree in psychology and have obtained either a postgraduate university degree or completed an equivalent of two years of supervised practical training to obtain registration as psychologists. This comprehensive education and training equip them with the skills to work in various areas of psychology, including mental health.
Like many professions, the qualifications needed for psychologists have increased over recent years, so more psychologists are choosing to become clinical psychologists if they decide to work with mental health conditions.
Psychologists should be registered members of the Australian Psychological Board, and many maintain professional membership with the Australian Psychological Society (APS). APS membership depends upon the demonstration of continued competence and requires continuing education. Also, APS members adhere to a strict code of professional ethics.
Will Seeing A Psychologist Help Me?
There is now sufficient research evidence to demonstrate that psychological interventions are both practical and affordable in the treatment of mental disorders.
Seeing a psychologist can effectively decrease depression, anxiety and related symptoms such as pain, fatigue and nausea. Research increasingly supports the idea that emotional and physical health are closely linked and that seeing a psychologist can improve a person’s overall health.
There is convincing evidence that most people who have at least several sessions with a psychologist are far better off than individuals with emotional difficulties who are untreated.
How Will I Know If Therapy Is Working?
As you begin therapy, you should establish clear goals with your psychologist. You might be trying to overcome feelings of hopelessness associated with depression or control a fear that is disrupting your daily life.
Remember, specific goals require more time to reach than others.
You and your psychologist should decide when you expect to begin to see progress.
It is a good sign if you begin to feel a sense of relief and a sense of hope.
People often experience a wide variety of emotions during therapy. When they start to feel relief or hope, it can be a positive sign that they are beginning to explore their thoughts and behaviour.
Start Therapy Today
Seeking therapy is a proactive step towards better mental health and overall well-being.
By taking this courageous action, you’re investing in your future by prioritising your mental health.
Early intervention is crucial, as it can prevent the escalation of mental health issues, improve your quality of life, and enhance your ability to cope with life’s challenges effectively.
When choosing a psychologist, consider their credentials, experience, and personal comfort level. The right psychologist should have appropriate qualifications and expertise in treating your concerns.
However, finding someone with whom you feel at ease and can build a strong rapport is equally important. Remember, the therapeutic relationship is one of the most critical factors in achieving successful treatment outcomes.
Therapy is a collaborative process that requires commitment and open communication from you and your psychologist. Working together, you’ll develop strategies to address your concerns, gain new perspectives, and learn valuable skills to improve your mental well-being. While the journey may have challenges, the potential for personal growth and positive change is immense.
Don’t wait to prioritise your mental health.
Take the first step towards a happier, healthier you by starting therapy today with ProActive Psychology. Our team of experienced, compassionate psychologists is ready to support you on your journey to well-being.
Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and begin your path to positive change.
References:
ABC News 2018, ‘How to find the right psychologist for you’, viewed 2 September 2024, https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-09-10/finding-the-right-psychologist/10139160.
American Psychological Association n.d., ‘How to choose a psychologist’, viewed 2 September 2024, https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/choose-therapist.
Australian Psychological Society n.d., ‘Study pathways’, viewed 2 September 2024, https://psychology.org.au/psychology/careers-and-studying-psychology/studying-psychology/study-pathways.
Good Universities Guide n.d., ‘Psychologist’, viewed 2 September 2024, https://www.gooduniversitiesguide.com.au/careers-guide/psychologist.
Lifeline Australia n.d., ‘Finding the right therapist’, viewed 2 September 2024, https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/general/finding-the-right-therapist.
Medical News Today 2023, ‘How to choose a psychologist’, viewed 2 September 2024, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-choose-a-psychologist.
Modern Medicine 2023, ‘How to choose a psychologist’, viewed 2 September 2024, https://www.modernmedicine.com.au/blog/how-to-choose-a-psychologist/.
MVS Psychology 2023, ‘How to find the right psychologist: Best tips in Melbourne’, viewed 2 September 2024, https://www.mvspsychology.com.au/how-to-find-the-right-psychologist-best-tips-in-melbourne/.
The University of Sydney n.d., ‘Becoming a registered psychologist’, viewed 2 September 2024, https://www.sydney.edu.au/science/study/study-areas/psychology/becoming-a-registered-psychologist.html.
