Anxiety Disorders Association of Victoria, Inc.

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Health Tips by Eva Savov

Choosing a therapist

To be quite honest with you I did not know what to write about in this issue of the Health Tips. So as I was sitting in front of my pc trying to figure out what to write about I realised a few issues that have come up lately. Therefore in this segment of the Health Tips I would like to talk about a few guidelines regarding finding a Therapist who can assist you in your recovery and Support Group Meetings. As a facilitator of Support Group Meetings, the most frustrating thing is when I hear about people who have gone to bad Therapists. I would like to take this opportunity to try and give you a definition of what good therapy is all about.  

• Therapy is based on empathy and support
• and has structured training and boundraries so that co-dependency does not develop between the patient and the therapist
• the patient is encouraged to explore options for their growth and healing

  Also it is your right to ask the following questions as well:-

• The Therapist for his/her credentials
• Their understanding and experience with Anxiety Disorders
• The treatments available
• An explanation if you do not understand something.

  When you go to a Therapist be aware if he/she is listening to you or is he/she telling you what to do? Most therapy sessions last about an hour. Be weary of those Therapist that take you in for a few minutes, prescribe you medications and tell you to come back in a few weeks. Obviously they do not have the time to listen and teach you how to manage and understand your Anxiety. Remember the best therapists are the ones that will encourage you and give you options, not the ones that tell you this is how it's meant to be.  
 
In recent times I have also discovered that people have some misperceptions about Support Group Meetings. Support Group Meetings are not group therapy sessions. They educate and bring about awareness through knowledge, this offers options, selections, directions. It's a safe forum for discussion built on trust and respect. Having an Anxiety Disorder can make you feel alone and at times you might even feel that no one really understands your dread and fear. Coming to a Support Group will alleviate that loneliness and help you realise that you are not alone and there are others who understand you. Support Groups can also inspire you as you listen and share other people's experience and their journey towards recovery.  
 
Finally, recovery is possible. So many have recovered and so can you.  
 
By Eva Savov