Research indicates that psychotherapy works, but its effectiveness is determined by many factors. It appears that the most crucial factor is finding a therapist who is the right fit for you counsellingresource.com/types/effectiveness.html . Quality of the relationship between therapist and client appears to be more important to the success of the therapy than the orientation of the therapist (e.g., cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, etc.) In other words, you need to look around for a therapist whom you trust and feel uses an approach that is a good fit with your needs. Here are some things to consider as you shop for the right therapist:

• Does the therapist have training and experience is dealing with the issue for which you are seeking treatment?
• Do you think you will feel comfortable enough with this therapist so that you can be as open and honest as you can about the issues you are facing?
• Does the approach offered by the therapist make sense to you and fit with your own objectives for seeking counseling?

It is true that a person has to want to make a change if therapy is going to work. However, many people, including teenagers, shy away from counseling because of the stigma or they feel defensive about needing outside help. Dr. Forsyth offers the following suggestions for dealing with loved ones who are hesitant about participating in therapy:

• You might ask your loved one to go to a therapy session or two with you, because you want to learn how to be the best possible parent, spouse, etc. for them and want an “expert opinion.”
• You might suggest that your loved one meet with the therapist once or twice only before deciding if he or she wants to pursue counseling. Hopefully after meeting with the therapist, your loved one will feel more comfortable with the idea and will learn of some of the suggestions the therapist has for helping them live a more fulfilling life.
• If your loved one just refuses to go, you might consider meeting with the therapist yourself, without them. Dr. Forsyth calls this “coaching” because she assesses the situation and provides you with ideas and a game plan for dealing more effectively with the person you care about.

The appropriate treatment will in part depend on the severity of the eating disorder and the issues that led to or are a result of the eating disorder. Your first step should be an appointment with your pediatrician or doctor to assess your child’s physical health. Your doctor may be able to counsel you on whether outpatient therapy is enough or if you should go straight to a more intensive treatment program. In the end, the best treatment is the one that works. It is paramount that you find treatment providers who are trained and experienced in the treatment of eating disorders.

Dr. Forsyth will be considered an “out-of-network” provider by your health insurance. This means that she does not have a contract with any insurance company for direct payment. You will pay at the time of service and then Dr. Forsyth will help you submit your claim to your individual insurance company for reimbursement. The amount covered for out-of-network providers is determined by each individual insurance company.

The duration and frequency of therapy depends on an individual’s needs, preferences, and finances. This will be discussed with you during your first appointment.

Dr. Forsyth is happy to talk with you by phone to answer any questions you have about her or her practice. Just call at 216-407-7257. This is a very important first step toward learning to live a healthier, happier life.