Is a psychologist right for you?

A psychologist is a trained professional who helps people deal with social, emotional or cognitive problems.  They use their therapeutic skills to help people make healthy changes in their coping styles and emotional and behavioural patterns. Psychologists see people of all ages, from very young children to older adults. Many people are seen by themselves, but a couple or even a whole family may come for help. Psychologists also work with groups of people with similar problems.

The title of “psychologist” is a protected term or name and only those who have met the criteria of the provincial licensing body can use the title.  To be licensed as a psychologist an individual holds a doctoral degree in psychology that involves from 6 to 10 years of university study of how people think, feel and behave.  This is followed by at least one year of supervised practice before taking more exams to become registered the are licensing body.  Psychologists who hold doctoral degrees, can use the title ‘Dr.’

Why See a Psychologist?

There are many reasons to see a psychologist.  These can range from your child having difficulties at school and wanting to know the reason, to personal struggles or problems that don’t seem to go away and get in the way of day-to-day living. 

Acknowledging that you have a problem and making a decision to see a psychologist or other mental health practitioner can be a difficult one. Many people feel uncomfortable about the prospect of talking about things that are distressing or even embarrassing to a complete stranger. On the other hand, people often find it much easier to tell their problems to someone they do not know and who has no expectations of them. While talking to friends and loved ones can be very supportive it is sometimes difficult for them to be objective and honest because of their feelings for us and of their roles in our lives.

Why See a Regulated Professional?

Regulation or licensure is important because it ensures that the practitioner has met particular standards of training and care. If you have any concern about the behaviour of a regulated practitioner, you can contact the provincial or territorial regulatory body that licenses his or her practice. The role of the regulatory body is to protect the public by ensuring that its practitioners are properly trained and are competent. You have no assurance that an unregulated person is competent to provide the service offered and no regulatory body to contact if you have any concern about the service provided.

How Do I Choose a Psychologist?

People often access psychologists through local clinics and hospitals, upon referral from their family physicians, or upon the recommendation of friends, family members, religious leaders and teachers. Provincial associations of psychologists also often maintain referral services and can direct you to psychologists in your area who work with problems such as yours. Although you may need a referral from a physician to see a psychologist on staff at a hospital, you can self refer to psychologists in private practice.

In addition to choosing a regulated practitioner such as a psychologist, you want to choose one with whom you feel comfortable. It is very important to psychological work that the client and psychologists have a good rapport and develop a good working relationship. As is the case with any other kind of professional, one practitioner might be a good fit for one person but not a good fit for someone else. 

Once you have established the practitioner’s credentials, the best way to determine if he or she is right for you is to use your feelings as a gauge:

1.  Does this person appear knowledgeable, kind, understanding and non-judgemental?

2.  Do you feel listened to and uniquely appreciated?

If not, perhaps you need to try someone else who might be a better fit.

Personal problem getting in your way? Consider seeing a psychologist.  

Estes Moustacalis, Ph.D., C.Psych. (Dr. “M”)

www.oakvillepsychologist.com

info@oakvillepsychologist.com

905 617-8308

Providing psychoeducational assessments and consultation on

behalf of children and adults with learning difficulties and counseling for adult issues.