By Cassie Cacace<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For many people, therapy is associated with being \u201cbroken.\u201d I put this in quotes because that couldn\u2019t be further from the truth! While it\u2019s normal to seek therapy when we face challenges, we can also use therapy as a preventative measure for those inevitable future stressors and to creatively explore our relationships and the world around us. Therapy doesn\u2019t have to be a last resort. In fact, I believe asking for help is one of the most courageous things someone can do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One of the many benefits of therapy is having a safe space that is just for you, where you will be heard without judgment. There is a beautiful concept in Irish culture called Anam Cara. This is sometimes translated as \u201csoul mate\u201d or \u201csoul friend\u201d and is described as a \u201ccompassionate presence\u201d where \u201ctwo people connect and are open and transparent\u201d (\u201cAnam Cara,\u201d 2022). Humans are hardwired for this sense of connection. As babies, we must be connected to a caregiver to survive, and this need for connection continues long into adulthood. We can find an Anam Cara in many relationships, and there is something powerful (and even sacred) about the vulnerability and acceptance that comes with the therapy process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
My hope is that we continue normalizing therapy and continue healing our families and communities. Below are some practical steps you can do this month, and long after, for Mental Health Awareness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Different kinds of mental health professionals<\/u><\/strong> <\/strong>(NAMI, 2020)<\/p>\n\n\n\n Psychiatrist:<\/em><\/strong> a psychiatrist is a Medical Doctor (MD). Some psychiatrists provide therapy, and some do not. Be sure to ask ahead of your appointment what you can expect. They can prescribe mental health medications. Other providers who can prescribe mental health medication may include Mental Health Nurse Practitioners and Primary Care Physicians. Always talk to your doctors to see if you might need specialized care.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Psychologist:<\/em><\/strong> a psychologist is usually trained at the doctoral level, meaning they have a Ph.D. or a Psy.D. Psychologists can provide testing, assessment, and many provide therapy services as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT):<\/em><\/strong> a LMFT has a minimum of a master\u2019s degree, with some pursuing doctoral level work. They are trained specifically to work with systems, including couples, families, and individuals. LMFTs usually take a systemic perspective, meaning they will be curious about your family, your culture, your region\/state\/country, spiritual\/religious, work, school, and global issues that are impacting you and your partner\/family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW):<\/em><\/strong> a LCSW has a minimum of a master\u2019s degree, with some pursuing doctoral level. Social workers can provide therapy, and they also have knowledge of local support systems and resources for the community or often work in these agencies in the community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC):<\/em><\/strong> LPCs also have a minimum of a master\u2019s degree, with some pursuing doctoral level. They are more like to approach mental health from an individual\/traditional perspective, rather than a systemic or relational perspective.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ways to Find a Therapist<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Once you\u2019ve thought about what kind of mental health professional fits your needs, how should you go about finding them? The internet is a vast space when it comes to mental health. The following websites can be a good starting point for your search. You can filter your search with your zip code, insurance, preference for in-person or virtual sessions, and more. I also recommend calling a few therapists to see who you feel comfortable with. Much like finding a good doctor, it is also more than okay to switch therapists if you realize they aren\u2019t a good fit for you or your family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Psychology Today<\/strong> Mental Health Match<\/strong> Gottman Referral Network (for couples therapy)<\/strong> Inclusive Therapists<\/strong> Therapy for Black Girls<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
https:\/\/www.psychologytoday.com\/us\/therapists<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
https:\/\/mentalhealthmatch.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
https:\/\/gottmanreferralnetwork.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
https:\/\/www.inclusivetherapists.com\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n