Psychologists are doctoral-level professionals who specialize in various aspects of psychological healing, growth, and change. Psychologists work with individuals, couples, and families.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who usually focus on the use of medication for the relief of symptoms in the treatment of seriously disruptive or highly distressing psychological problems.

Clinical social workers generally have master's degrees and expertise in working with individuals, couples, and families. They are also trained in working with community resources.

Marriage and family therapists have graduate degrees in treating systems, ie: looking at how couples and families function together.

Coaches are a new type of helping professional. Coaches work with you to help create the kinds of results you want in your life.

Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) generally have master’s degrees in counseling. LPCs work with individuals, couples, and families.

Pastoral counselors are church-affiliated helpers who have theological training. Many have additional training in counseling, and are sometimes also licensed psychologists, social workers, etc.

Regardless of the type of professional you choose to see, it is important to choose someone who is certified or licensed to practice his/her profession. The licensing or certification of a practitioner means that she meets the basic standard that a particular profession requires of those who practice psych-therapy. Experience is another important criterion in selecting a helping professional. Like everyone else, therapists continue to learn as they practice, and learning pays off for clients in terms of therapeutic knowledge and skill.

Skilled helping professionals recognize the importance of the right fit between therapist and client. As a client, you need to feel comfortable with the therapist's orientation and general approach. Also, clients reporting the most successful outcomes find their therapist to be warm, genuine, and empathic. Research also indicates that your level of involvement in the therapy process and your willingness to change are important predictors of successful outcome.

So, how do you find a well-qualified therapist (or coach) who will fit for you? Locating a therapist directory, such as Find-A-Therapist.com is a simple approach to tapping into the pool of practitioners. Most services will list therapists by specialized areas, location, and special needs. A second approach is to ask someone you know who has had a successful therapy or coaching experience to recommend a practitioner.

Only through a personal consultation can you assess whether a particular therapist is right for you. Because selecting a therapist involves a combination of objective and intuitive experience, it may take a few meetings before you have a clear sense of the "fit." Besides checking out professional qualifications, discuss your specific needs and goals with the therapist or coach, and determine with the therapist whether she/he can work with you on the issues and concerns you want to resolve.

E-mail us for more information about individual, couples and group therapies at TransformationWorks.

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