Should I try counseling?

[Nickname-]

I have dealt with depression for about 4 years of my life. I'm looking for some advice about counseling/therapy and if I should try it again or not. I've had past experiences with counseling, and it wasn't the best experience. I'm looking for some advice if I should give it another chance. Thanks~

[levymaria]

Hi 👋🏽,

I think it's definitely a good idea to try counseling again previous experiences with old therapists is like past experiences with exs 😂 You gotta push past it and be willing to try again with someone NEW and if they don't work out keep looking! This is your journey don't let a few bad apples ruin your chance of getting help! Please come back and update on how you're feeling and remember you are not alone! 😊

[Nickname- in reply to levymaria]

Alright, Thanks for the advice! I'll keep you posted

[blackcat64013]

In regards to recovery from the mental health, physical, emotional and spiritual effects of problems, the old adage ‘time heals’ does not often apply, nor does time in itself reduce the intensity of thoughts and feelings. If you are thinking about professional help, I recommend choosing a counsellor or therapist that’s right for you.

In finding the right therapist

It’s useful to look around. Talk to your GP about therapists that they would recommend or talk to friends and colleagues about their experiences and read the therapists profiles.

Search online for therapists/counsellors .

How to choose a therapist - Telegraph

telegraph.co.uk › Lifestyle › Wellbeing › Health Advice

Jul 31, 2014 - The variety of counsellors is vast and can be confusing, but a clever new website now matches patients with specific therapists.

Once you’ve found a Therapist that you think you could work with, call them to ask about their methods and approach to their work with your issue, experience, fees (if the cost of the session is not obvious to you, remember to ask this when talking to your therapist/counsellor for the first time) and other relevant information such as parking or transport options before you book in for a first session.

A good Therapist will answer all your questions and they will also ask some more information about your situation. If they feel unable to meet your needs they will refer you on.

You should always feel comfortable asking your counsellor/therapist any questions about what will be involved in therapy.

The cost involved

Many psychologists, social workers and mental health nurses who work in private practice are registered with Medicare. This means that if your GP considers it appropriate to prepare a Mental Health Care Plan, you will be eligible receive up to 10 counselling sessions a year (initially 6 sessions with the opportunity to access 4 more after a review) for which you can claim a Medicare rebate.

You will need to talk your GP about whether you are able to access a Mental Health Care Plan. Speak to the receptionist when booking your appointment as it may require a longer visit.

People with Health Benefits Extras cover that includes Psychology can claim a rebate from a session with a psychologist. It is not possible to claim both rebates for the same session.

Some private practitioners will negotiate the size of the gap payment depending on your income and many bulk bill clients who are on benefits or a pension.

[Nickname- in reply to blackcat64013]

Wow! Thank you for the great amount of information! I really appreciate your knowledge on this subject. Thanks!

[kitty2017]

I thought about counseling but never went for it. Was it not good?

[Hidden]

Sometimes it can be good to try and find a therapist that's suitable for ya. It can take more then a few times to find a therapist you can connect with. I've had issues with that myself. There's always group therapy ☺ That can be helpful. To be around other people and share your thoughts and such 👍☮ I wish you luck! 🙂