How to Choose a Mental Health Provider

Selecting a mental health provider can sometimes seem daunting. There are so many different services on offer so it’s a good idea to have a basic understanding of what each one is about. Let’s take a look at the common mental health services available, and share some considerations about how to choose a provider that’s right for you.

A basic overview of what’s on offer

1. Psychiatrists

Psychiatrists are trained medical doctors who go on to receive a specialist post graduate education in psychiatry. They prescribe medications to help with mental health conditions and they help the patient with the management of medications. A psychiatrist will work from a clinical perspective to help improve the emotional and mental health of a patient.

2. Psychologists

Psychologists and psychiatrists will often work with the same patients, to help improve the same mental and emotional problems. They do so in very different ways, with complementary services, and one may refer a patient to another. Psychologists work on the behavioural aspects of mental health. They may carry out tests to determine the mental status of a person and then develop a course of action to help them with problems ranging from anxiety and depression to relationship problems and eating disorders.

3. Life Coaches

On the surface, the services of a life coach could appear to be similar to that of a psychologist. However, the training and approach will likely be quite different. A psychologist requires several years of specific tertiary training, whereas anyone could potentially sell themselves as a life coach. Life coaches will have various levels of qualifications and experience, so check the background of the coach before determining whether you want them to help you.

Life coaches will work not only with people who have mental health problems, but often (and maybe even more so) with healthy, ambitious people who want to get the most out of life. They can help coach and guide a person towards achieving their goals.

4. Counsellors

A counsellor is someone who has been trained to provide guidance and suggestions to help improve the mental health state of a client. They listen to the person’s problems and offer advice to help fix those problems. Counselling can often be focused on finding solutions to short term problems. Counsellors can have varying levels of qualifications and experience.

Other considerations for choosing a provider that’s right for you

Once you have decided which service will suit your personal situation, consider these factors when choosing a specific practitioner:

• Make sure your chosen provider is understanding and non-judgemental. You should feel comfortable in their presence, and the space should feel ‘safe’.
• Check credentials and recommendations from others to determine whether they are the best person to help you with your specific needs.
• A great practitioner will listen carefully and sessions will be entirely focused on your needs.
• Be prepared to change providers if you don’t feel like you connect well with your practitioner.

To find out about life coaches and other mental and emotional health practitioners near you, check out our website listings.