Marriage counseling is a process where partners seek external help from a licensed mental health provider to address issues in their relationship. It can be beneficial in any situation, including when an issue arises but you don’t know how to talk about it. Emotionally focused therapy is considered the gold standard for relationship therapy, and if you seek counseling within your marriage, it is likely that your therapist will.
Marriage counseling is generally conducted by a counselor, couples therapist, or other mental health professional specializing in relationship counseling, family therapy, or a similar field. Marriage and family therapists have a secrecy policy, and they do not divulge the information discussed in couples therapy or therapy sessions with others. Contrary to popular belief, marriage counseling isn’t always reactive; you may seek professional advice at any stage, even before tying the knot.
Premarital counseling is an effective tool to use as you begin your married life, helping you prepare for future issues. It is not meant to work through current issues but to help you prepare for future issues. Research suggests that most couples wait an average of 2 ½ years before seeking professional help via therapy.
There are seven reasons to attend couple’s therapy before marriage. First, it is important to find someone who is actually trained in couples therapy. A couple therapy treatment format is essential if a therapist is to help married individuals. Second, a psychologist who is board-certified in couple and family psychology is essential.
In conclusion, marriage counseling can be beneficial for both partners, regardless of their situation. It is essential to seek professional advice at any stage, even before getting married, to ensure a fulfilling and lasting relationship.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| Has Anyone Done Premarital Counseling? | I think everyone should see a couples’ therapist or counselor before marriage – it’s so beneficial … I did premarital counseling because I could … | reddit.com |
| Do I Need Couples Therapy or Individual Therapy? | Individual therapy is really meant to address things that are specific to one person, and is more focused on specific symptomatology. | erikalabuzanlopeztherapy.com |
| 7 Reasons For Couples Therapy Before Marriage | Premarital counseling offers many benefits to the couples that attend. Here are seven reasons to attend couple’s therapy before marriage. | familypsychnj.com |
📹 Psychiatrist or Therapist: Who Should YOU See?
Psychiatrist Dr. Tracey Marks delves into the key differences between psychiatrists and therapists, offering guidance on choosing …
Why Do Couples Seek Marriage Counseling?
Many couples pursue marriage counseling to improve their relationships, communication skills, or address common relationship challenges with a mental health professional. Known as couples therapy, this form of psychotherapy focuses on resolving conflicts, enhancing communication, and strengthening partnerships. Couples learn to communicate with compassion and engage in healthy problem-solving. Unresolved issues, such as growing apart or difficulties in communication, often prompt couples to seek assistance.
Counseling involves dialogue about relationship problems, with the goal of fostering a loving connection. According to surveys, common reasons for seeking marital therapy include communication problems and lack of emotional affection. Marriage counseling is particularly beneficial for couples facing intimacy issues or those who feel more like roommates than partners. It helps create a safe space to discuss issues and promotes understanding and empathy.
In addition, counseling can improve individual skills such as conflict resolution and boundary setting. Overall, couples therapy aims to enhance relationship resilience and satisfaction, making it a valuable option for many couples experiencing difficulties.
Is It Better To See A Counselor Or Therapist?
Counselors and therapists provide overlapping care, yet differ in education, licensure, and scope of practice. Counselors typically address life challenges on a short-term basis, while therapists focus on ongoing treatment for mental health conditions. Though both can offer advice on specific issues, counseling is usually short-term therapy, whereas psychotherapy tends to be longer-lasting and more comprehensive. The choice between seeing a counselor or a psychologist can be challenging due to their distinct methods and specializations.
Understanding these differences helps individuals select the most suitable provider for their mental health needs. Counselors often tackle specific problems and emotional challenges, employing a more straightforward approach, while therapists, including psychologists, are trained in the theory behind mental illness and engage in deeper psychotherapeutic practices to address serious disorders. Psychotherapy generally requires more advanced training than counseling and can last months or years, depending on individual needs.
When seeking help for complex mental health issues, a therapist is often more appropriate, while a counselor may be ideal for specific, short-term concerns. Ultimately, both counselors and therapists play vital roles in improving mental health and quality of life, offering support tailored to individual circumstances.
What Type Of Therapist Is Best For Marriage Counseling?
When seeking marriage counseling, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFTs) are highly recommended due to their specialized training in addressing relationship dynamics. LMFTs are certified experts with advanced training and state licensure, often credentialed by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). While other therapists like Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) and psychologists can offer support, LMFTs specifically focus on couples therapy, making them particularly suited for addressing marital issues.
Marriage counseling aims to enhance communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen relationships. There are various methods available, including the widely used Gottman method, which equips couples with tools for problem-solving and intimacy. When selecting a therapist, it's essential to consider those with specialized training in couples therapy and to verify their credentials.
Ultimately, the best therapist depends on the couple's specific needs, so exploring the pros and cons of different types of counselors is crucial. Key types of marriage counselors include LMFTs, Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), and others focused on couples work. Finding a therapist who is challenging yet non-judgmental is vital for progressing through counseling successfully, and utilizing consultation options can help in making the right choice.
What Happens In The First Session Of Couples Therapy?
The first couples therapy session serves as an opportunity for the therapist to gather important information about you and your partner while beginning to understand your relationship dynamics. It takes courage to share sensitive topics with a stranger. This introductory session is filled with potential, both uplifting and challenging, and aims at fostering relationship growth. Expect to discuss your history of distress, the main problems you face, and what causes tension in your relationship.
The session typically starts with paperwork, followed by an initial assessment, where the therapist evaluates your communication styles and conflict resolution methods. This period is crucial as it sets the foundation for future sessions. Partners can voice their thoughts, enhancing mutual understanding and communication skills. Studies indicate that couples therapy is effective in restoring relationships about 75% of the time, making this first meeting significant.
The therapist will engage you with basic questions regarding your relationship's history, offering an "origin story" that provides insight into your shared experiences. Ultimately, the first session is about establishing rapport and understanding the issues at hand, preparing both partners for the therapeutic journey ahead.
Should You See The Same Therapist For Individual And Couples Therapy?
When considering conjoint individual and couples therapy, challenges arise, including potential conflicts with therapy goals and the risk of dual relationships, triangulation, and confusion for patients. While a therapist can technically see both individuals and couples, it's vital to navigate this carefully to avoid compromising the therapeutic alliance. Each type of therapy serves unique purposes: individual therapy focuses on personal exploration, while couples therapy enhances communication and intimacy.
Therapists may have differing opinions on seeing a couple individually, with some viewing it as unethical due to concerns about confidentiality and conflicts of interest. The key to effective therapy is understanding when to seek individual versus couples counseling based on the couple’s needs. Research highlights the interplay between individual mental health and relationship quality, suggesting that separate therapies can be beneficial alongside joint sessions.
However, it is typically advised for couples to have separate therapists—to maintain neutrality and clear boundaries—when dealing with their individual and relationship challenges. In essence, combining both forms of therapy requires careful consideration, clear communication, and often, the involvement of distinct therapists for individual and couple's sessions, thereby preserving the integrity of each therapeutic relationship.
What Not To Say At Marriage Counseling?
During couples therapy, effective communication is crucial, and certain phrases should be avoided to promote a constructive environment. Common pitfalls include blaming language ("It's all your fault"), making absolute statements ("You always/never"), and using negative labels. Sarcasm, defensiveness, and giving ultimatums can escalate tensions. It's important to express emotions without invalidating your partner's feelings, as this fosters a more supportive dialogue.
Couples should mentally prepare for uncomfortable questions and approach sessions with an open mind. Avoid discussing private matters with outside parties to enhance trust. Key phrases to avoid include accusatory remarks and dismissive comments such as "I don't know what you want from me." Additionally, hints of comparison to past relationships can be detrimental. Treatment should focus on mutual respect, kindness, and honesty. Both partners must refrain from hiding information, as secrecy undermines trust.
By steering clear of these communication traps, couples can maximize the effectiveness of therapy and work towards stronger relationships. Ultimately, understanding what not to say is fundamental in nurturing open and productive conversations during counseling sessions.
Do You Need Marriage Counseling?
Marriage counseling provides professional guidance for couples facing relationship challenges, such as communication issues, infidelity, parenting difficulties, and ongoing conflicts. Seeking counseling can be beneficial not just for couples in distress but also for those who wish to enhance their connection. Signs indicating the need for counseling include constant arguments, fear of discussing issues, emotional indifference, and a lack of intimacy. Research suggests that marriage therapy can significantly help around 70% of couples, promoting healthier communication and emotional connections.
Counseling sessions involve discussing problems and developing solutions collaboratively, allowing couples to assess their relationship dynamics and make informed decisions about their future. It's crucial for couples to recognize when to seek help, as continual negative interactions and unresolved conflicts can escalate and deteriorate the relationship.
Regardless of life stage, counseling can foster improved communication, empathy, and conflict resolution, benefiting the relationship overall. Couples therapy also assists in maintaining a unified approach to parenting and intimacy.
Ultimately, marriage counseling aims to facilitate communication and support couples in finding the best way forward, whether that leads to reconciliation or understanding. Seeking help signifies a commitment to improving the partnership.
Is It Time To Seek Marriage Counseling?
Marriage counseling can be beneficial for couples facing persistent conflicts that they can't resolve independently. Signs that indicate the need for counseling include financial strain, differing parenting styles, and infidelity. Recognizing when to seek help can be challenging, particularly if you're unsure if you're simply navigating a tough phase. Common indicators include frequent and escalated arguments, negative communication, emotional withdrawal, and a general sense of indifference.
Admitting the need for help might feel intimidating, but it can foster a healthier relationship built on open communication. Proactive counseling can help couples address issues, improve communication, and rekindle affection. It's crucial to seek assistance early, as many couples delay until their situation worsens. Dr. John Gottman's research suggests couples often wait an average of six years of unhappiness before seeking help. Ultimately, recognizing when it's time for marriage counseling can make a significant difference in restoring intimacy and connection.
Should I Start Marriage Counseling If My Partner Refuses To Be Open?
When one partner is hesitant about marriage counseling, reassure them that the aim is to strengthen the relationship. Dr. Borland notes that frustration is common when one partner is closed off about their feelings, suggesting the need for patience. It's important to discuss counseling positively and collaboratively, as research shows this approach can be effective. If your partner refuses to attend couples therapy, there are still paths forward.
Engaging with a qualified marriage coach alone demonstrates initiative and can set a constructive tone. It's essential to understand the underlying reasons for your partner’s reluctance; they may benefit from a preliminary conversation with the counselor. Communicate your desire for therapy in a non-confrontational manner, emphasizing your perspective. Individual counseling can also prevent feelings of hopelessness and clarify your role in the relationship's challenges.
You can still benefit from counseling even if your partner won’t attend; focusing on your own growth can positively impact the relationship. If your spouse declines to consider therapy, reinforce your intention to pursue it alone for personal development. Listening to your partner's concerns and addressing them respectfully is crucial. Ultimately, while one partner's individual effort can improve the relationship, a willingness to adjust one's mindset is necessary for progress.
Will My Partner Go To Marriage Counseling?
When one partner resists the idea of marriage counseling, it can create feelings of frustration and hopelessness for the other. Patience is key, and it might help if the reluctant partner has a preliminary phone call with a counselor to address their concerns. While both partners usually need to be willing for counseling to be effective, alternative exercises may provide support for the marriage if professional help isn't an option.
Promoting counseling as a positive, collaborative effort can encourage open dialogue about the issues within the relationship. Research indicates that marriage counseling can be beneficial at any stage, including pre-marital situations. However, resistance to therapy may stem from a belief that problems can be resolved independently or from prior negative experiences with counseling.
It's also vital that partners communicate about their hesitations regarding therapy, recognizing that if one partner is completely against it, it may indicate a lack of willingness to improve the relationship. Even if counseling is not possible, individual therapy can enhance personal skills to manage conflicts better and foster a healthier dynamic. Ultimately, acknowledging that you cannot control your partner's decisions is crucial, and exploring ways to create motivation for counseling can be a productive step forward.
Should Couples Go To Counseling Before Marriage?
Premarital counseling can empower couples to foster long-term relationships, particularly when both partners are open to self-reflection and change. Effective communication is crucial; couples who struggle to talk may jeopardize their marriage. Counseling offers tools to enhance communication, conflict management, and overall relationship quality, ultimately setting a solid foundation for marriage. It helps couples address potential issues like trust, infidelity, finances, and differing values.
Attending this form of therapy not only improves skills but also increases the likelihood of a successful marriage, with studies showing a 30% higher success rate for those who participate in premarital counseling. Such sessions allow couples to discuss critical topics like roles, children, and financial matters before tying the knot. It is advisable to pursue premarital counseling before engagement or wedding planning, as it prepares couples for lifelong commitment and fosters marital satisfaction.
The investment in counseling promises long-term benefits for both partners and any future family. Ultimately, premarital counseling is not just about addressing current challenges, but also about equipping couples with the tools necessary for a thriving marriage.
📹 What to Do if Your Husband or Wife Has Mental Health Issues
Anxiety, depression, addiction and other mental health issues can lead to challenges or even hopelessness for one or both …
I have both a psychiatrist and a therapist. I started with a therapist for severe trauma work back about a decade ago and it was enough for awhile and I’ve made a lot of progress. Until it started to not be enough and my moods became more erratic and unpredictable. The psychiatrist came on board when my PCP noticed I was struggling too much for her to manage. Having both is what I need at this stage of my life and I am thankful I can have both. I think just starting on the path to helping your mental health is a huge decision and I applaud everyone that does it!
Your articles are very informative. I have found that therapists are not always discerning and many of them stay very text book with their therapy practice. In this case they aren’t observant to recognize the need to proactively refer out as they should when they are unable to treat patients properly. It is such a disservice to those that need help to get better. Thank you!
I used to see 2: psychiatrist to prescribe meds, and a therapist for talk therapy. This article kinda describes that, but the title’s question confused me. Nowadays my GP handles most of my prescriptions, and talk therapy is available when I feel I need it. The main thing is to make sure I see the therapist in person, not just online or over the phone. (My insurance doesn’t cover phone therapy.) The therapist needs to know if my nails aren’t done, if I start looking frumpy or unkempt, these can be signs that my mental health is heading in the wrong direction. That said, I sometimes also have fatigue due to ongoing targeted therapy for stage 4 cancer, so I usually need therapist skilled in helping me distinguish between depression and fatigue. As temping as it is to do online therapy, I still prefer in-person appointments when I need them. Our local cancer center has therapists specifically focused on understand these kinds of issues.
In my experience they’ve had two very different roles with a really nice synergy one more in the practical way and the other more on the psychological way so my tip is to ask the therapist for a good psychiatrist that she/he may know because there are many bad psychiatrits out there unfortunately and the better ones are those with some training in psychotherapy too Edit: Beside medications my psychiatrist really made possible countless activities and support in the practical way and that’s what I mean with a synergy with the therapist especially if the know each other and occasionally even communicate with each other to exchange information and strategies
For me, I initially started having panic attacks so acutely when I was freshly 19 and still hadn’t moved from my pediatrician yet, but I didn’t know they were panic attacks. So I made an appointment to explain to him what was going on and without even telling me what was happening, he left the room and came back with a name. I called the name, made an appointment, went to the appointment with my dad, and was put on Zoloft. I don’t know how it never occurred to me that that name was a psychiatrist and that I was having panic attacks. But sometimes that’s just how the journey goes. I did very quickly after that begin the arduous journey of trying to find the right therapist and 13 years later, everything is so vastly different, but that’s mental health. It’s wild. Have no expectations, but remain hopeful. That’s how I’m still here. Thanks for your articles.
It made a world of difference when I started seeing a psychiatrist that doesn’t take insurance. He is worth every penny! He actually has you text him in between appointments with issues. I have ADHD and bipolar disorder, and it’s hard to medicate because the medications cancel each other. I found for behavioral treatment, The ADHD Dude Membership, though it’s aimed at parents, is also helpful for adults with ADHD. Therapy is limited in how it helps me. It did help me manage thought processes with difficult emotions, but in the moment I often feel strongly then when it passes I’m over it. Self care, meditation, journaling, stress management, exercise, these all help too.
this is such a great and comprehensive article. there’s so much misinformation on this topic. people tend to think they need to be medicated for depression due to a “chemical imbalance” when what they need is behavior change. then they end up frustrated when medication either doesn’t work or they need to keep increasing their dosage. the same is true for mild anxiety. then there’s the people that go to therapy and say “it doesn’t work” because they saw a talk therapist when they needed to see a trauma specialist or maybe would respond more to another modality. such a great job clearing up the confusion!
Where i live, you get about 45minutes to talk during an appointment with a psychiatrist (governmental clinics/hospitals). Talking for almost an hour definitely gives a patient the chance to create an alliance and let themselves be heard, but also allows for the dr to get a good understanding of both bodily and social facors thay contribute to the current mental state of the patients. Ofc there will be those that cut the time short and just concentrate on medications, but the bookings are alwaus 45 min long.
What many here share is obvious, be open to both options! I have a psychiatrist who at first I felt was just basically doing med management and a wonderful therapist (took several less successful interactions with 2 others previously to find the right one). I’m now grateful that both are helping me start to heal after over 37 years of suffering with not one but two undiagnosed conditions. The psychiatrist never wants to over medicate me and that had alleviated much fear of taking prescription drugs. This article is one of the most helpful from Dr Tracey Marks because I finally understand the reason psychiatrists are usually only handling medication in the USA (it’s very different in Western Europe). Thank you.
Those of us in anguish, pain and suffering may find, as I did, a medication that is helpful from a psychiatrist who is not. I became tethered to a useless five year stint of ‘talk therapy’ that never even touched on my root cause issues. Finally realizing my predicament, I left the meds and the money-sucker behind. Soured by that experience, it took many decades for me to begin a journey of real healing; discovering my root cause issues and changing my responses to them. Get the RIGHT help from the right source. Knowing what is right for you can be difficult. Some issues, like mine, that are managed with meds for more than a reasonable time, without real inner resolution, is a red flag. Even in distress, we are our best hope for healing…and outside meds and therapy may be useful, but need to be monitored for results.
I would like to add the often-forgotten Advanced Practice Nurses, also known as Nurse Practitioners or mental health nurses who specialize in psychiatry and are also qualified to diagnose and treat mental health conditions and prescribe medications as well as provide therapy or counseling. There are numerous options available for mental/emotional health issues and concerns and this article provides and EXCELLENT breakdown of all available mental health resources.
Wow I looked too many articles but yours are very clear for my mind and don’t create me panic. Very nice because I found you. Hello from Romania (somewhere in est Europe). I like your articles. Cannot sleep because I have a energy which not leave me. Can’t have that relax to sleep. Every night at 3 or 4 a clock I’m waking and can’t sleep until 7 in the morning. What should I do? In the rest of the day I have panic attacks especially when I’m driving and at laptop because of the posture.
If your brain chemistry isn’t optimal, a psychiatrist. If you need to work through trauma, a psychologist. But even if your problems are better treated with medication, it still helps to talk about them. To talk about your symptoms and better understand them and how to work with them. Luckily my psychiatrist will listen if I want to talk. I’ve heard from many people that say theirs just wants to write the prescription and rush them out of the office to make way for the next paying customer.
I have severe social anxiety and a negative thought pattern. Some say OCD intrusive thoughts. I have consulted a Christian counselor who is helpful but doesn’t accept insurance. I have no advocates or friends in my community or church to rally around me. Everyone just assumes the worst and gossips about me. It’s like being terrorized every single day of my life. I don’t know what to do. I’m barely hanging on.
I find that a lot of people see a therapist because they think that we can’t diagnose. A lot of people avoid seeing a psychiatrist because they do not want to be diagnosed with something or take meds. They associate that with “crazy people see them”. I do not feel that most psychiatrists push meds. There is a long wait list to see a psychiatrist. If a patient does not need meds then you won’t prescribe.
I should have booked with you a yr ago..now when I’m financially set..I cant even book you. I’m seriously done seeking help… You’re the only that truly cares to educate us.. ughhh 😢 I’ll be checking up regularly. If you can tell us when you’ll start accepting new patients again..or at least cash patients if you take insurance ❤ thank you for all of your great articles
I teach the mnemonic “Please refer critical symptoms before proceeding.” Please (physical symptoms including palpitations, tachycardia, tremulousness, and weakness); refer (rapid onset of symptoms); critical (alterations in level of consciousness including seizure); symptoms (severe impairment); before (bipolar presentation); proceeding (perceptual disturbances).
My psychiatrist does both meds and therapy. It’s expensive and she doesn’t take insurance but my medication is much better managed now. Before, I had a psychiatrist that did 10 min medication appointments, he completely missed the fact I had a thyroid condition called Graves Disease and I was misdiagnosed as having bipolar disorder. The meds for bipolar disorder caused all sorts of awful side effects and they were completely unnecessary. After getting my thyroid problems taken care of, I still had mental health challenges and my regular doctor wanted me to see a psychiatrist. I was really hesitant until I found my current doctor. My psychatrists correctly diagnosed my ADHD and depression, talks with my regular doctor about other potential health issues (she referred me to get a sleep study and I was diagnosed with sleep apnea).
I see both my psychiatrist every month and my therapist every other week for which just got diagnosed with pure O OCD with anxiety 😥 my intrusive thoughts drive me crazy and crazy is the biggest fear I have. I always check for psychosis or schizophrenia symptoms making sure I am not going that route. Even though my therapist tell me if you’re worried about being psychotic it’s most likely you are not. BUT I can’t convince my brain it’s always a “WHAT IF” 😢
I would like to add that in my case I can’t see a therapist or Psy without a referral so you may start with your general practitioner. They then can recommend a therapist or Psy. Personally the Psy I have seen and there’s been a lot they never do therapy with me. I have a counselor for that. It would be more handy to have it with one but I’m lucky and good help.
Over 15yrs seeing a psychiatrist and therapist to no avail. I went to them to get assistance with finding housing, as the housing authority told me that they were the only one that could help with that. That was a lie. I was left homeless for 5yrs. It’s a scam for no other reason than profit. They were paid by the state and kept me drugged up for disorders I don’t have. They said they would do their part if I did my part (my part was to take the meds as prescribed, which I did). They never did a thing to help. At one point the psychologist told me that I should start taking a medication that made me suicidal because he wrote it.
From the non medical, common sense camp. If your feeling depressed for months and cant shake it, I’d ask. Are you routinely (3+ days a week for 1hr) engaged in strenuous (you have to sweat) physical activity? Are you eating wholesome foods at levels that support exercise and not body fat? Are you receiving adequate and restful sleep? Do you have healthy outlets to help mitigate stress? I’m not anti medication or anti medicine. However, I’ve watched a family member waste away for years on “medication” (ativan’s, lithium and others) prescribed by a Psychiatrist rather than addressing and engaging in common sense solutions that require effort. IMO It doesn’t have to be an either or scenario. However, I believe it’s manifestly obvious, the more effort you put into yourself, the less reliant you will be on pharmaceuticals.
@Dr. Tracey Marks I wanted to watch an old article from you again, called Why people with ADHD procrastinate. I saw you talking but I heard a different voice translating it into my own language (Dutch). I thought this was a new YouTube feature, but that article is the only one where this occurs. I wanted to let you know.
It is so freaking easy in the U.S. If your sick, going to work, not making enough money because your potential has gone to stocking for Amazon Prime. Then you know you can’t afford proper healthcare in Texas. You can buy an assault rifle with thousand of bullets for a fraction of a price to get good help in Houston, Texas. This is life. This is hell. No one should ever use violence against each other and I freaking hate guns. I had one to my head and it took the police 3 hours to respond. I know a lot of you are mentally ill and we should never be violent. We need to act fast!
As a former mental health nurse in the UK, for UK residents, I would recommend people see their GP first, unless they’re experiencing psychotic symptoms, then you should call 999 or go to your nearest A&E. What is key is the relationship between the patient/client and the mental health professional. The therapeutic approach is not important,
I am a healthcare provider. If you are on meds, it is smart to get them from someone that understands those meds. I have a great therapist. She doesn’t know ANYTHING about prescribing or monitoring medications. She can’t even tell me what she would look for to contact a prescriber to discuss how medications could be affecting treatment. I know more about it than she does because I have worked in healthcare for decades. DON’T THINK YOUR THERAPIST UNDERSTANDS YOUR MEDS and can tell when your meds could be CAUSING your symptoms such as tooth grinding and nightmares. Because you deserve to get a skilled prescriber, not someone that took a weekend online course. God help the people in the states in which therapists can prescribe. They are risking their health.
I have a phobia of psychiatrists due to misdiagnosis and false medications. Therapy was unfortunately a joke, probably because I live in an area with exclusively white therapists and I’d want someone who has a different background to get me. I white-knuckle it all. I found doing self-administered CBT helps a lot.
A big,big, problem I found is that finding and choosing a mental health worker, be it psychiatrist/psychologist, is so very difficult. The exchange is very personal but in times of great emotional stress one is least capable of such a selection and they can do harm. But, there is no choice in this, it is a problem we have to confront.
Read books by dr Daniel Amen for natural meds. Amino acids, a good quality fish oil a omega 3 and magnesium saved me from depression and major anxiety. SSRIs made me worse ! Are you exercising, getting socialization eating the right foods ? DR Marks is correct a good therapist can help, though you may have to try different ones.
Had about 9 therapy sessions with a psychologist. I’m going to see a Psychiatrist to get a proper diagnosis. All my symptoms and the questionnaires indicate moderate to severe depression but i also think i have persistent depressive disorder. After that i dont know what i am going to do. I have no help and I cannot afford anymore therapy where i live and I do not want to go on medication at all based on all the side effects i have done research about. At this point after 13 years of fight and struggle i dont think i can do it anymore
Problem is even medically qualified psychiatrists don’t seriously consider exogenous or organic root causes of mental distress and disorders. People can literally go a whole lifetime being given antidepressants and talking therapies before the primary cause is determined, such as a tumour, malnutrition, chronic toxicity, parasites, or genetic disorders or congential malformations. That’s not to say talking therapies hold no benefit and I get the pragmatism of treating the symptom not the cause, however they can be largely ineffective when there is a physical cause.
I see a PMHNP-BC ( Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified) for anxiety (medicated) and ADHD (coaching, since I’m abnormally sensitive to stimulants — coffee stays in my system for more than 12 hours, which really is not normal!). I never know what to call him, when I talk about him.
I just used you to sign up for BetterHelp, however I feel like maybe therapy isn’t for me. I’m highly violent and he wants to keep talking about traumatic events that are just making me obsess over violent thoughts more. Do you think I need a psychiatrist, or should I stick with the therapist a bit longer? He’s so vague and not pragmatic and it’s annoying. I just want answers and a way to make progress, not vague bs about let’s talk about how you feel and why. I know why I feel like I do!! I just need skills to help me achieve my goals, I don’t need to talk about it lol. Life is bullshit and that’s the gist of it, now tell me how to excel. Don’t tell me how to reflect on my own despair. I know bad shit happened in my life, what’s lounging around talking about it gonna do. I want actionable and progressive things! He even admits I’m hyper aware of myself, yet he thinks I don’t know everything about myself. Makes no sense!!!
Happy Holidays Dr Marks.. you’ve helped me greatly in knowing how to direct a friend experiencing in my opinion severe depression and addiction. What I’ve noticed is undealt with childhood traumas is where the majority of his mental state stems..unfortunately Meth is his choice of drugs, he’s hearing voices that aren’t real but the voices say things to him he already feels about himself. My issue is he just started a new job and is on probation which ends in a few months can he get treatment without losing his job?
This is very helpful up to the point of the wide range therapies. That was kind of overwhelming to take in. I’m also extremely scared of going to a psychiatrist and having them lean into medication from the start instead of helping lead the way to an accurate diagnosis and guidance to the right form of therapy. How do I find a quality psychiatrist to be my north star to a holistic mental health balance?
I was born FASD. My mother drank through her entire pregnancy with both myself and my younger brother. My grandmother raised me since I was an infant. In midlife adulthood, I was diagnosed with BPD and have taken group and individual DBT which has not helped. What treatments are there for FASD which we believe to be the primary reason for having BPD or is that not a thing?
Dr. Marks, I have been in therapy with a few therapists for several years unfortunately without much improvement. I was wondering how to narrow down what type of therapy that I need. I have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorder. I have a psychiatrist that does my meds. Do you have any advice? I am very discouraged.
The problem with the US mental health industry model is that master’s level therapists don’t have the education nor tools (structured interviews) to accurately/differentially diagnose character pathology. People with borderline level functioning waste their times, money, and lives attached to a bogus diagnosis of based off their symptoms. Accurate diagnosis from a psychologist should precede talk therapies (which in the case of CBT is already largely denial-based and quasi-scientific).
I see a psychiatrist because it appears that Medicare would not pay for just a therapist . I also see another Dr. For my med management . Yes there are both doctors . I was previously diagnosed as bipolar 1. I think I am actually adhd . Also had been bulimic for most of my adult life . Did not have a clue about what my issues even were . Also in NH the drinking age was dropped to 18 years old the year I turned 18. . The year I turned 21 it went back up . Produced a bunch of young drunks in NH that I am not sure it has yet recovered from ! So, at 26 I HAD to get sober ended up going to AA. . Sober 17 years, picked up a drink For three years then fucked up really bad . Got sober and have been so since I am now 68 took my whole life to figure things out along with therapy for many years . My dad was a doctor, when my mother got pregnant with my sister, he told her not to worry there was no way she could possibly end up with another like me ! I was known as a “lively kid” ! If there had been drugs for kids in those days I guarantee my dad would have put me on them ! They would have tried anything I guess !!
Be a psychiatrist give you the power over the patient while don’t make you a psychotherapist. Becoming a psychotherapist is a long, hard, and abstract journey that requires so much effort, training and hours: probably your entire life. Is not that simple like sitting and catching up with someone as she painted on the article.
Here in the United States mental healthcare sucks! I’m retired on a fixed income and with so few Psychiatrists in a 50 mile radius,1 out of 10 might accept Medicare otherwise it’s $300 plus and $200 for return visits. Sure we have state run clinics they absolutely suck! The psychiatrist that do accept Medicare treat some patients like crap or dismiss them. I know Medicare has a long paper trail and they don’t want to pay the full amount. Look at the reviews on any mental health hospital even in your area, most have under 2 stars, for some or most it’s traumatizing! If a person needs safety they need to go. Just saying
Over 50 museums were made one in each state of America and one in the city of London and one in Birmingham And people were going to the museums and they were seeing everything that I have been through including all the food that I had to eat at God’s will and people were throwing up and crying and committing suicide over 1 million people have committed suicide in the 50 museums And people couldn’t even get past the food room they couldn’t go on any more it was too hurtful In fact MI5 in the CIA offer people 1 million pounds if they can walk through the whole building and see what I’ve had to go through 49 years of life People collapse to the floor on their knees calling me a poor cunt I can’t believe he’s been through that