Get the best health care: our panel of medical experts tells you how to make the most of one-on-one time with your doctor, dentist, therapist and other health pros

Shape, April, 2005 by Kristyn Kusek

PSYCHIATRIST/PSYCHOLOGIST/SOCIAL WORKER

Before you go

* Do a background check. There are three basic types of psychological professionals. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in mental-health issues and can prescribe medications (best if you have a mental illness such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, or definitely want to use medication); psychologists have usually earned Ph.D.s and also specialize in mental-health issues (best if you don't think the issue you're facing, whether it's anxiety or an eating disorder, will require meds); licensed clinical social workers have master's degrees and specialize in very specific areas like self-esteem, relationship counseling and so on (best if you need help in one particular area, and again, don't think you need medication).

To find a reputable therapist, call the American Psychological Association's referral service at (800) 964-2000. You can also locate groups devoted to specific conditions online, such as the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, which has a doctor-finder feature on its website (www.adaa.org).

* Write down your major concerns. Therapy can be challenging, and a first visit can be especially tough because you don't know each other. Write down a clear outline of what you want help with. If you're feeling really uneasy, simply hand the notes to the therapist when you first meet.

During the visit

* Make sure the two of you mesh. "During your first visit, don't focus too much on the content of the conversation," suggests Faith Tanney, Ph.D., a psychologist in private practice in Washington, D.C. "Instead, see if you're comfortable talking with the therapist, and make sure you don't feel judged or disrespected."

* Evaluate her MO. There are dozens of different types of therapy--everything from art therapy to hypnosis--so it's important to make sure that what your doc practices jibes with your needs. For example, if she insists that all of her stress-management clients meditate and you know you'll never comply, it's best to check out someone else.

Durham, N.C.-based health writer Kristyn Kusek has found a new use for her reporting skills: taking notes during her doctor visits.