All who work in the field of mental health should be correctly trained and certified, says Dr. Kai Morgan, a former president of the Jamaica Psychology Society. - Ricardo Makyn/Staff Photographer

When a client engages therapeutic services, he or she must feel free to question the therapist about their credentials and their training. - Morgan

A therapist can teach you all the skills you need to manage life. According to Dr. Kai Morgan, psychologist, you know you need a therapist when you are distressed about an issue in your life and you are unable to work it through on your own.

However, she notes, most people tend to wait until the problem has spiralled out of control before they access counselling/therapeutic services.

Don't wait until that time. Know your own limitations! It is hard for people to admit that they need help but, the longer you wait, the harder the problem becomes for you to solve.

Now, how to choose a therapist.

Dr. Morgan notes that the registration/licensing laws in Jamaica are very fluid right now, but professionals are working hard at instituting a process to protect the public from fraud.

A therapist (not a psychologist or counsellor) is someone with either master's or doctoral level training in clinical psychology, counselling psychology, counselling, mental health counselling, or closely related field, or may even be a psychiatrist, social worker, nurse or medical doctor with specific training in psychotherapy.

Dr. Morgan notes that when a client engages therapeutic services, he or she must feel free to question the therapist about their credentials and their training.

Ask him or her about years of practical training, where they received their degree, and their experience with whatever the issue may be.

Individuals may even contact the Jamaican Psychological Society (927-2492 - Dr. Morgan; or 512-3341 - Dr. Lipps) to find out if the therapist is a member and to verify if he or she has the necessary qualifications.

However, not all therapists may be members of this national organisation.

Another great source of help when choosing a therapist is Psychology Today's Therapy Directory. Here are some things to consider :

Location. Proximity is a very important. People make excuses when it comes to therapy. Don't let distance be one of them.

Comfort level. Do you think you'll be comfortable discussing the secrets of your life with this person? Ask yourself if you'll be more comfortable with a male or female therapist.

Recommendations. Find a professional who has treated people with problems similar to those you face. Often, a therapist focuses on specific issues such as eating disorders, sexual dysfunction or mood disorders. Sometimes a therapist works closely with particular populations, such as adolescents, gay couples or people of particular religious backgrounds. Be sure to learn your therapist's focus.

The click. On your first visit, ask yourself, "Do we click?" Do you feel a connection with your therapist?

The pocket. When you do settle on a therapist, settle on fee beforehand.

Sharing values. Finding a therapist who shares your beliefs is necessary. Determine if a Christian counsellor would be better for you.

Listening skills. Does your therapist have good listening skills? Be sure he/she is attentive and hears what you have to say.

Ask the provider how long therapy should last. Don't accept a vague answer. If the person is experienced, he or she should have an idea of what you can expect.

Partial information source: Psychology today online magazine.cms.psychologytoday.com