Mental health is a crucial aspect of human well-being that impacts a person’s overall functioning. It encompasses internal experiences, including how one feels, behaves, thinks, or relates to others. Although today’s society has become more aware and accepting of mental health issues, severe conditions like PTSD and anxiety are often overlooked or sometimes dismissed as minor concerns. Seeking the help of professionals like consulting psychologists can make a major difference in managing such conditions.

Meaning and types of consulting psychology

Consulting psychology is the professional practice of diagnosing and treating psychological issues. Since the symptoms of mental health conditions are subtle at first and can be associated with just everyday stressors, there are several ways to approach diagnosis and treatment. Some common types of consulting psychology models include the following-

Client-centered- A professional such as a licensed practitioner or physician dedicates time to the client and analyzes, diagnoses, and implements strategies to help with their condition.

Consultee-centered- Here, consultees mainly aim to become more knowledgeable and skilled in a particular subject by receiving guidance and training from the practitioner.

Behavioral consultation- Here, the consultants examine the individual’s behavior and assess the causes, then develop strategies to effectively modify or manage behavioral patterns. They also monitor progress and positively improve the person’s overall social, personal, and other functioning.

Organizational consultation -Organizational consultation helps groups or companies work better. Consultants assess what’s not working, suggest ways to improve weak areas, and help with changes. They also offer training and support to create a better work environment.

Reasons to seek mental health consultation

Several signs may indicate one must seek mental health consultation. Here are some of the most pressing reasons-

Anxiety- One may experience general anxiety, like constant worry, which can affect their daily life and relationships. Frequently, untreated anxiety may also lead to disorders like social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and other types of phobias. One needs to have a dedicated treatment approach to get to the root cause of the issues and seek professional help to manage and overcome anxiety effectively.

Mood swings- Many times, one may experience severe mood swings or emotional fluctuations that may indicate a need to seek professional help. This sign is commonly seen in conditions like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, paranoid personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or depression. Seeking professional assistance can provide support and guidance to manage and address such mood disturbances effectively.

Changing relationship with food- Food is basically a source of nourishment to fuel one’s body. If an individual experience any changes in how they relate to food or finds themselves dealing with eating disorders, they should consult a professional to rule out any underlying issues.

On a more day-to-day level, one may experience the following issues that should prompt medical help-

• Out-of-control thoughts or emotions, feeling confused, getting suddenly angry or sad
• Out-of-control behavior that seems to affect one’s relationships, work, or social interactions
• Inability to deal with daily tasks or general daily challenges that one easily managed earlier
• A general feeling of helplessness or despair

Tips to find the right mental health professional

Find the right consultant for one’s issues

Different healthcare experts address different mental health concerns. For example, a psychiatrist is a professional with different specializations, including child and adolescent or geriatric. Psychologists, on the other hand, deal with thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. A physician assistant is a primary care provider who works with a physician. These specialists identify and treat mental health conditions. A professional counselor helps identify mental health conditions and offers counseling. There are also family therapists and social workers. Knowing whose help to enlist is necessary to get the right help for one’s mental health needs.

Know what one needs

A general practitioner may help diagnose a condition, but for treatment, it’s important to seek the help of a doctor who specializes in one’s condition. Alternatively, one can also try to reflect on one’s preferred therapy. It can vary based on what one is dealing with, like anxiety, trauma, or relationship issues.

Seek recommendations

Get suggestions from trusted friends, family members, or healthcare providers. Personal referrals can improve the trust factor, provide valuable insights into how the therapist approaches the client, their transparency in fee structure and explanation of one’s condition, client satisfaction, the way they address and speak to the client, their professionalism, and other aspects essential for a positive therapeutic experience.

Check credentials and licenses

It’s crucial to ensure that the mental health professional one chooses is qualified and licensed to practice in one’s state since each state has different rules, exams, and licenses.

Take logistics into consideration

It’s also important to consider the practical aspects of the consultation. One may have to visit the doctor multiple times to ensure the location is accessible. Similarly, inquire about the doctor’s availability, session fees, and insurance coverage. Understand whether they will offer in-person therapy or if online therapy is available and which one would be one’s preferred option. Ensure that the therapist’s schedule aligns with the schedule of the individual seeking consultation.

Seeking professional help from consulting psychologists can go a long way in navigating mental health conditions and their challenges. By addressing mental health conditions early on, individuals can form coping mechanisms and ensure their overall well-being.