Let me focus in Part II on defining what quality psychotherapy and counseling means.
The therapist/counselor you choose to see must have all the necessary credentials. This means there have been years of education – book learning and clinical training. There is also licensure and continuing education to keep up-to-date and informed to most appropriately help you.
Please do even consider trusting your psychological health and life growth and development to anyone who is not well-credentialed.
You should expect that your therapist is prepared to really ‘be there’ for you at your appointment times as well as take the time needed to process your treatment before and after sessions. Your therapist will spend approximately 2 hours of time for each 45 to 50 minute appointment you schedule. Most therapists also offer 5 to 15 minute phone contact for no additional cost; the amount of phone contact allowed varies and will usually be discussed at your first visit.
Some really good news about quality psychotherapy/counseling is that it generally has a positive impact on your physical health! Several research studies have even concluded this. In fact, some data suggests that for every dollar spent on psychotherapy approximately four dollars is saved in medical expenses.
When you ‘heal your mental hurts’ you have better more satisfying relationships, you are more productive, and you are generally more successful in your daily life.