I need help finding a therapist - reaching out in a last ditch attempt

[Inthedarkofthenight]

I have been struggling with my mental health for a number of years.

I feel I suffer from criplingly low self esteem/low mood. I have no idea where it comes from, but my negative self talk is constant.

Recently my partner of 7 years ended the relationship out of the blue, never heard from them again so not even a proper break up.

I am crushed.

I feel like I am in a fog and just don't know what's for the best now.

Obviously mental health is even worse, I find myself fixating on what I'd done wrong, who is he with now, why is he happy etc (you get the picture). Its pure torture and I can't seem to stop.

Non of this helped by the fact I am getting older and now have no home, partner, potential children and just feel I'm in a tailspin.

I have been thinking about counselling for a while, but I don't have a clue where to start.

There are so many types, disciplines and I'm finding it too overwhelming.
I don't have the biggest budget, but don't want to choose based on cost alone.

Can anyone give me a helping hand and point me in the right direction?
I am in the greater Manchester area, not opposed to online/phone either.
Ideally not in the city centre as is a ballache to get into.

Any recommendations on discipline I need, or better yet, someone you've used or know the reputation of would really help me out.

I know finding a good therapist that works for you is hard, in an ideal world someone would come along and say 'book with MrX in ABC Street, he'll sort you right out'.

Try Mind

Take a look at counselling directory. Every counsellor on there has to be fully qualified and a member of a professional body such as the BACP (British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy)

You can filter by area and key words.

Call a few to see how you feel about them and don't be afraid to ask questions about how they work. They should have their prices on there too.

Something like person centred therapy can be very effective for self esteem issues. I hope you can find someone that you click with.

I wouldn’t overthink the discipline but it sounds like you need help with thought patterns and getting through a difficult time, so I would just look for therapists that talk about those sorts of problems. I found mine by just googling therapy in [area] and browsing their websites until I found someone who felt like I would be comfortable with. I also was looking for someone with actual qualifications, so did a quick cross check of what professional bodies they said they were registered with and looked for letters after their name, not that I knew the exact qualifications they should have but just to reassure myself that they hadn’t just done a six week life coach course or whatever.

I hope that helps.

Well Done on reaching out for support OP. Agree with PP don't be too concerned about the discipline - the chemistry / relationship between you and the therapist is, in my opinion the most significant thing - but do cross check that they are qualified with a professional body.

You might find this link helpful - sanctus.io/directory/ - Also IAPT services are available nationwide through the NHS - just google IAPT and your geographical area. .

I have a brilliant therapist who is also a trained coach. She is based in London but offers virtual sessions. I will DM you with her details.

Good Luck