If you’re going through a tough time, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to work through it alone. Seeking help from a mental health profressional can provide the support and guidance you need to achieve a healthier and happier life. To help you get started, here are some key points to consider.

Finding a Therapist That Suits Your Needs

Whilst not all wellness centers work in the same way, many of them will have what is called an ‘intake session’ as your first session there. During this intake session, you will meet with a mental health professional who will ask you to explain what it is you are currently going through and if there are specific areas that you would like to work on. With that information in mind, you will be assigned to a therapist that the wellness center feels suits your needs best.

Those clinics that don’t offer intake sessions, you will be able to choose a therapist based on what their practice is. However, if this is all new to you, it’s good to know the differences between those practices, so that you can make a more informed decision.

Types of Professionals

• Psychiatrists: These are qualified doctors who specialize in mental health and can prescribe medication.
• Psychologists: They provide therapy and can offer psychological testing and evaluations.
• Counselors: Provide talk therapy and guidance who focus on coping strategies and specific issue approaches.
• Psychotherapists: A broad category that includes various professionals providing mental health therapy using different therapeutic techniques and methodologies based on their area of specialization.

Making Sure You Have the Right Fit

It’s important to keep in mind that, ultimately, you need to feel comfortable with the therapist that you’re working with. So, if at any point you feel as though you and your therapist haven’t gelled, it’s completely ok to change to another therapist - don’t feel disheartened.

If the wellness center that you’ve picked doesn’t offer intake sessions, it’s also completely fine to ask them for guidance when choosing which therapist you’d like to work with. They are here to help you, so don’t feel shy asking as many questions as you need.

Understanding Therapy Costs

It’s helpful to be aware of the costs associated with therapy so you can plan accordingly. On average, a one hour therapy session will cost you around €50, with non-urgent cases tending to have an appointment roughly once every two weeks. This means that you’re looking at costs of around €100 per month. If you’re concerned about the price, it’s worth checking in with the wellness center if they have a flexible payment plan option. Additionally, if you have health insurance through your employer, you may be able to claim some or all of these expenses. Investing in your mental health is invaluable, and there are often resources to help make it more affordable.

Free Mental Health Helplines & Services

If you’re in need of immediate and free emotional help, support or guidance, free phone Malta’s 24/7 national mental health helpline on 1579.

Similarly, Richmond Foundation also offer a free helpline for those experience mental health difficulties, which you can make use of by calling 1770.

Richmond also offer a free online chat service called Olli Chat, where you can speak to their mental wellbeing support team with a level of confidentiality of your choice.