How to find a psychologist or psychotherapist
1. Psychologist or psychotherapist: what is the difference and why it is important
A psychologist is a specialist with higher pedagogical or psychological education, conducts diagnostics and counseling, does not prescribe medicines.
A psychotherapist is a doctor or psychologist with an additional certificate in one of the methods (CBT, psychoanalysis, gestalt, etc.), owns therapeutic techniques of deep work and behavior change programs.
For gaming addiction, psychotherapy (CBT, motivational interview, family therapy) is preferred - it combines diagnostics with practical strategies to reduce cravings and retain the result.
2. Key criteria for selecting a specialist
1. Qualification and Licenses
Diploma of higher education (psychology, medicine).
Profile certificates: CBT, dependence, EMDR, art therapy.
2. Experience with addictions
The presence of cases or experience of treatment for gambling addiction.
Publications, speeches at specialized conferences.
3. Methods and approach
CBT - structured work with thought-images and behavior.
Motivational interview - increased internal motivation.
Family therapy - connecting loved ones to create a support system.
4. Responsiveness and comfort
First impression: attentive listening, lack of hasty decisions.
The speed of response to requests, the convenience of making an appointment.
5. Cost and format
Price range (in Ukraine: 600-1500 ₴ per session; in Russia: 1500-4000 ₽).
The possibility of online consultations (Zoom, Skype, instant messengers).
6. Geography and availability
Nearest office or flexible online appointment schedule.
Parking, metro station, transport accessibility.
3. Reliable search sources
4. Selection stage algorithm
1. Make a short list of 5-7 specialists for recommendations and sites.
2. Study the questionnaires online - pay attention to the experience with gelling addiction.
3. Request a free or low-cost first consultation (15-20 minutes) to assess communication.
4. Ask key questions:
5. Preparing for the first meeting
1. Formulate a goal: "I want to stop playing and build a self-control system."
2. Prepare facts: duration of addiction, frequency of breakdowns, financial losses.
3. Write down the questions: what to do in moments of strong desire to play, how to involve loved ones, what techniques to use at home.
4. Assess the logistics: place of reception, session duration, cost, cancellation/transfer conditions.
6. Work after selecting a specialist
Regularity of meetings: 1-2 times a week for 45-60 minutes.
Homework: keeping a diary of thoughts and emotions, exercises to stop cravings.
Intermediate assessment: every 4-6 sessions, analysis of progress on the frequency of thoughts about the game and the facts of breakdowns.
Plan adjustment: If efficacy is low, add family therapy or medication support.
7. Additional recommendations
Mutual aid groups: In parallel to individual therapy, visit Anonymous Players (GA) to exchange experiences.
Online resources and applications: Habitica, Sober Grid, applications for blocking sites.
Support for loved ones: agree on "check-ins" with a partner or friend after each session.
Personal responsibility: record progress in the table: date - facts - applied techniques - result.
Choosing a qualified psychologist or psychotherapist is a fundamental step towards freedom from gambling addiction. Clearly identify your needs, use reliable sources, conduct a small "selection round" of consultations and regularly assess the effectiveness of therapy. This systematic approach will ensure sustainable results and help to regain control over your life.
A psychologist is a specialist with higher pedagogical or psychological education, conducts diagnostics and counseling, does not prescribe medicines.
A psychotherapist is a doctor or psychologist with an additional certificate in one of the methods (CBT, psychoanalysis, gestalt, etc.), owns therapeutic techniques of deep work and behavior change programs.
For gaming addiction, psychotherapy (CBT, motivational interview, family therapy) is preferred - it combines diagnostics with practical strategies to reduce cravings and retain the result.
2. Key criteria for selecting a specialist
1. Qualification and Licenses
Diploma of higher education (psychology, medicine).
Profile certificates: CBT, dependence, EMDR, art therapy.
2. Experience with addictions
The presence of cases or experience of treatment for gambling addiction.
Publications, speeches at specialized conferences.
3. Methods and approach
CBT - structured work with thought-images and behavior.
Motivational interview - increased internal motivation.
Family therapy - connecting loved ones to create a support system.
4. Responsiveness and comfort
First impression: attentive listening, lack of hasty decisions.
The speed of response to requests, the convenience of making an appointment.
5. Cost and format
Price range (in Ukraine: 600-1500 ₴ per session; in Russia: 1500-4000 ₽).
The possibility of online consultations (Zoom, Skype, instant messengers).
6. Geography and availability
Nearest office or flexible online appointment schedule.
Parking, metro station, transport accessibility.
3. Reliable search sources
| Source | Features |
|---|---|
| Professional associations | Lists of certified specialists (RPA, NPP RF, UAP). |
| Health Services and Clinics | Private Addiction Centers, Psychiatric Units. |
| Online Platforms | ProDoctorov, Doc. ua, PsyList: ratings and patient reviews. |
| Recommendations from friends | Live friends/family experience, honest feedback on results. |
| Social networks and forums | Thematic communities (Telegram, Facebook groups). |
4. Selection stage algorithm
1. Make a short list of 5-7 specialists for recommendations and sites.
2. Study the questionnaires online - pay attention to the experience with gelling addiction.
3. Request a free or low-cost first consultation (15-20 minutes) to assess communication.
4. Ask key questions:
- "What is your experience with gaming addiction?"
- "What therapeutic technique will be used and how many sessions are usually required?"
- "How do you assess the effectiveness of therapy?"
- 5. Compare responses for comfort of interaction and clarity of treatment plan.
- 6. Collect feedback from specialists: the timing of the next meeting, homework, support formats between sessions.
5. Preparing for the first meeting
1. Formulate a goal: "I want to stop playing and build a self-control system."
2. Prepare facts: duration of addiction, frequency of breakdowns, financial losses.
3. Write down the questions: what to do in moments of strong desire to play, how to involve loved ones, what techniques to use at home.
4. Assess the logistics: place of reception, session duration, cost, cancellation/transfer conditions.
6. Work after selecting a specialist
Regularity of meetings: 1-2 times a week for 45-60 minutes.
Homework: keeping a diary of thoughts and emotions, exercises to stop cravings.
Intermediate assessment: every 4-6 sessions, analysis of progress on the frequency of thoughts about the game and the facts of breakdowns.
Plan adjustment: If efficacy is low, add family therapy or medication support.
7. Additional recommendations
Mutual aid groups: In parallel to individual therapy, visit Anonymous Players (GA) to exchange experiences.
Online resources and applications: Habitica, Sober Grid, applications for blocking sites.
Support for loved ones: agree on "check-ins" with a partner or friend after each session.
Personal responsibility: record progress in the table: date - facts - applied techniques - result.
Choosing a qualified psychologist or psychotherapist is a fundamental step towards freedom from gambling addiction. Clearly identify your needs, use reliable sources, conduct a small "selection round" of consultations and regularly assess the effectiveness of therapy. This systematic approach will ensure sustainable results and help to regain control over your life.
