How should I approach getting a therapist?

Hello, I'm new to the forum and have been contemplating whether or not I should see a therapist.

For about 6 years now, my days have consisted of highs and lows. When my day is uninterrupted, I am on top of the world. When something triggers me, I can have a very low day usually ending in self-harm. I didn't think what I was going through was valid or real until I came across someone on YouTube who was going through Borderline Personality Disorder. Everything she was saying she experienced, I experienced too. A year goes by and I don't think anything of it and don't take any actions to seek help.

I thought I was getting better as I hadn't self harmed in almost a year and suddenly I was harming myself again. In a psychology course I'm currently taking, we spent the day discussing mental health and everything about being borderline fit me like a glove.

I was going to e-mail my professor to ask about how to get help but she is notorious for not checking/responding to e-mails.

I came across this forum because I took the borderline personality quiz and scored a 40 (33 & above being severely likely to suffer from it).

Mental health isn't something that's discussed in my family and friends so I wanted to ask about the steps I should take or if I should even take any steps as most of the time when I'm not going through a "low" phase, I think I'm fine.

Thank you.

Well I'm not sure the system in Calfornia. Here there are both private and provincial counselors and psychologists within the existing healthcare system.

My recommendation is to first see a psychiatrist. This is normally done by getting a referral from your family doctor. A psychiatrist is not only in a better position to make a diagnosis but can prescribe any medications you may need.

From that point you have several choices. Your psychiatrist may inturn refer you to a psychologist appropriate to your diagnosis and needs. They may even recommend the type of therapy (ie. CBT) that could best help you. The other choice is to obtain a psychologist on your own. Your local mental health association ought to have a list of those taking patients.

If money is an issue, you may wish to see a counselor instead. Here many social workers are trained to offer counseling.

Go to your councilor office and ask for a referral to local mental health services. They may even have a therapist to help you on campus.

A professional opinion would be best. Do not use the internet to find labels for yourself.

Wish you good luck with your therapist..

I wasn't trying to label myself, just looking for help on how to approach a therapist. Thanks for nothing.

Thanks for all the advice. Thunder Bow reiterated what I was feeling: nothing is wrong with me. I don't think I'll be seeing a professional because I am afraid that I'll be going in for no reason. Maybe I'll get better with time.

Thanks for all the advice. Thunder Bow reiterated what I was feeling. I don't think I'll be seeking professional help as I'm afraid there is nothing wrong with me and I'll just be a bother. Maybe I'll get better with time on my own.