7. How to Access the Right Professional Help

So you’re ready to get support — or at least open to the idea.
That’s a massive step in itself.

But how do you actually find the right professional?
What does the process look like?

This lesson will guide you through the different ways to access help and what to consider when choosing a therapist or mental health professional that fits you.

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🏥 1. Start with Your GP
In many countries, your general practitioner (GP) is the best place to begin. They can:

• Conduct a preliminary mental health assessment
• Recommend professionals tailored to your needs
• Help you access government-subsidised support (like Australia’s Mental Health Care Plan)

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💡 Pro tip: In Australia, this plan gives you a set number of discounted therapy sessions per year under Medicare.

But… not everyone feels comfortable talking to their GP. Maybe they’re your family doctor, or you’re concerned about privacy.

It’s okay if that’s not your first choice — there are other options.

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🔎 2. Go Direct
You can search for a therapist yourself:

• Use platforms like Google, Psychology Today, HealthShare, or country-specific directories
• Try matching services or apps that pair you with therapists based on your goals
• Ask friends, family, or trusted colleagues for recommendations

Getting a referral from someone you know can give you more confidence that the person is trustworthy and experienced.

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💼 3. Through Your Workplace (EAP)
Many workplaces offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) as a free, confidential service.

EAPs are designed to support employees with:

• Mental health concerns
• Life stressors
• Work-related challenges

Ask your HR department if your workplace has one, and how to access it. In many cases, family members can use the service too.

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🧭 How to Find the Right Fit
Finding the right therapist is not like picking the closest hairdresser or cheapest product.
Here are five key things to look for:

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1. Connection (Most Important)
Ask yourself:

• Do I feel emotionally safe around this person?
• Can I say what I really feel without fear of judgment?
• Do I sense understanding, warmth, and respect?

💡 Research shows the quality of the therapist-client relationship has the biggest impact on outcomes — even more than the specific therapy method used.
Trust your gut. It matters.

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2. Specialty
Does this person:

• Have experience with what you’re going through?
• Focus on a particular area (e.g., trauma, anxiety, eating disorders)?
• Have qualifications and registrations with reputable professional bodies?

Look for signs that they’ve helped others like you — but remember, therapy is personal. Reviews are helpful, but not always universal.

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3. Practicality
Can you:

• See them regularly without added stress?
• Afford the sessions long-term?
• Do sessions online (if needed)?

💡 Mental health is the best investment you can make.
Check what’s available through insurance, rebates, or telehealth options — and frame this not as a cost, but as care.

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4. Format
There are different types of therapy access, including:

• Private practice – one-on-one sessions you pay for
• Outpatient programs – group support through hospitals or clinics
• Inpatient care – more intensive, full-time support when needed

Most people start with private practice — and that’s more than enough in many cases.

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5. Patience
It might take a few tries to find someone who’s the right match. That’s normal.

You’re not unfixable.
You’re not “too much.”
And it doesn’t mean therapy isn’t for you.

Sometimes it takes several sessions (or therapists) to find the one that clicks.

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🎯 Set Goals, Not Expectations
Before you start therapy, reflect on:

• How you want to feel
• What behaviours you want to change
• What “progress” might look like to you

That way, you and your therapist can track how things are evolving — and adjust as needed.

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🛠️ Do the Work (Outside the Room)
If your therapist gives you exercises, reflections, or habits to practice — give them a go.

Real growth happens between sessions, not just during them.
Therapy is a partnership, not a magic fix.
Your therapist isn’t there to save you — they’re there to support and empower you.

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💬 If It’s Not Working, Speak Up
If something’s not feeling right — say so.

It might feel awkward at first, but giving feedback is actually a powerful practice:

• It helps your therapist tailor their approach
• It strengthens your ability to express your needs
• It can lead to deeper healing and trust

A good therapist will welcome your honesty.

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📆 Don’t Stop When Things Feel “Good”
Therapy isn’t just for crisis.

In fact, continuing when you’re feeling stable allows you to:

• Build stronger coping tools
• Dive deeper into core wounds
• Create momentum for long-term growth

If you’re thriving, maybe reduce your session frequency — but don’t ghost your progress.

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🔁 Final Thought: Healing Takes Time — But It’s Worth It
Finding the right professional is like any meaningful relationship — it takes time, effort, and commitment.

And when you find the right fit?
It can change your life.