"So why bother?"

With all of the struggles and oppressions that we face on a daily basis, we need an outlet.   We need a comfortable environment where we can talk about the impact oppression has on us and talk about healthy and productive ways to deal with it.  

When you find an effective therapist, therapy can be a place to gain support and find more satisfying ways to live life.   It is a place where you only have to worry about yourself and your needs.

Therapy provides an objective perspective from a trained professional.   The therapist's objectivity comes from not having a personal relationship with you.   Unlike personal relationships, a therapist has no ulterior motives; the only motive is to make the changes in your life that you decide to make.

How can African-Americans find a therapist?

First, determine what is important to you.   Do you care what race your therapist is?   What about gender?   If you're not sure, then try a few different therapists and see what feels right to you.   Also, don't be afraid to ask for what you want.   Remember, this is a service that you're paying for; you are the client.   As a paying customer, you have the right to ask for what you want.

Before scheduling an initial session, determine the therapist's fee and make sure that you can afford it.   Therapy is a useful tool that helps people in times of crisis and fosters growth in times of reflection.   However, it is not as useful if you are not committed to it. So make sure that you can afford the therapist you choose.   Finally, don't forget what you already know.   You get what you pay for.   Do higher prices mean better service? Not necessarily, but a quality and effective therapist will charge within the average range for the area.

When you're ready to enhance your life or get help with a current crisis, a therapist might be just the one to call.

Visit www.tonyaladipo.com for the full-length article and additional information.

Resources for finding a therapist:

• www.psychologytoday.com

• Delaware Valley Association of Black Psychologists 215-790-9059