Tampa Psychotherapist & Mental Health Counselor

If you’re asking the question, “Do I really need therapy?” you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions I hear. The answer is, it depends. Some people are very aware of the fact that they are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, and they want to feel some relief from that. If you’ve noticed that your emotions are more intense than normal, you’re using unhealthy coping mechanisms, or people close to you have run out of ways to help, those are good indicators, too. Maybe you’ve tried to resolve things on your own, and it hasn’t worked. Seeing a therapist is a realistic option.

But what if you just want therapy? One of the biggest misconceptions in seeking therapy is that it means you are “crazy” or there is something wrong with you. Most of the time, it just means that you are struggling with something going on in your life and you need a little help. It could be a relationship (or lack thereof), uncertain career path, grief, anger, self-esteem, or adjusting to change. Sometimes people come to therapy when things are “good” simply because they want them to be “better.” Our society is overly-infatuated with personal trainers, nutritionists, and anti-aging treatments. Why wouldn’t you give your mind and emotional self the same respect and attention you give your physical body?

If you’re still nervous about it, here are a few more things to know about therapy. In order for a therapist to help you, he or she has to get to know you. So sitting down with a therapist is basically just having a conversation. You have to be able to develop a trusting relationship if you’re going to share your deep-dark-personal stuff, and you get to decide who you feel most comfortable with. If you are unsure of anything; the process, the expectations, the boundaries, just ask. Most therapists aren’t going to try to give you medication. They can’t. Many therapists believe in practicing what they preach, and see their own therapist. Know that going to a therapist doesn’t mean that he or she is going to have all the answers you seek. And, sorry, no magic wand. A therapist isn’t really supposed to tell you what to do, so don’t be afraid of a lecture. Ultimately our goal is to encourage, support, guide, educate, assist, offer perspective, motivate, and sometimes challenge. It’s really not scary, I promise.

What's the Difference Between a Mental Health Counselor, Psychologist, Psychiatrist...?

Quite simply, a Psychiatrist is an actual MD who can prescribe medication. A Psychologist typically has a doctoral degree, but does not prescribe medication. Mental Health Counselors typically have a Master's degree and do not prescribe medication. Each uses a form of Psychotherapy, or "talk therapy." Patients receiving medication from a Psychiatrist are encouraged to see a Psychologist or Counselor as well to have the ability to discuss in more detail how they are feeling and work on strategies beyond medication to improve their quality of life. Psychologists tend to focus more on psychological testing and diagnosis. Mental Health Counselors tend to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and focus more on day-to-day life management, general stresses, relationship counseling, etc. If you have a more specific question regarding which of these options might be best for you, just ask!