Having a loved one dealing with a psychological disorder can be difficult. Many don’t realize how difficult it can be to find proper help. There are many types of therapy for various psychological disorders. Dr. Renee Clauselle offers these tips on how to find the best ones.
1. Do you know the signs that it may be time to seek professional help? Ask yourself:
a) How often do I experience distressing or unpleasant feelings?
b) How intense are these feelings? Do they overwhelm me?
c) Do these feelings interfere with me leading a normal, productive life?
Choosing the right therapist and the best and right therapy for different psychological disorders can be confusing. Child and Family Psychology suggests that people follow specific tips when shopping for the right therapist.
2. How do you choose the right therapist for you?
a) Make sure the doctor is trained and has evidence-based results in specific treatments.
b) Make sure they are willing to give get three confidential case histories.
c) Do your research. Go online. See if they are knowledgeable and have content and a solid history. An outline of evidence-based treatments for the most common disorders and resources may help:
Types of Psychological Disorders
Anxiety: Cognitive Behavior Therapy, including relaxation techniques. See Dr. Renee’s audio-guided relaxation techniques below:
www.psychologists4kids.com/downloads-breathing-exercises-progressive-muscle-relaxation.php
ADHD, Autism, and other behavioral disorders: Behavioral therapy. Helpful resources may include downloadable behavior charts:
http://www.appbrain.com/app/behavior-status/com.chrislbennett.behaviorstatus
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/behavior-status/id418096479?mt=8
Depression: Cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal psychotherapy.
Phobias: Cognitive behavioral therapy and exposure therapy.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy.