The WBI Guide to Selecting a Therapist

You may consult by telephone one of the WBI Coaches below to help you identify

what is happening to you and the deleterious impact on your health.

direction sign

However, the

long-term treatment

should be local.

Types of Professionals

“We suggest using your health insurance, if you have it still, to meet with a counselor.”

An employer-provided employee assistance (EAP) counselor may be an option. Unfortunately, we have heard too many stories from targets who tell us their EAP counselor(s) did not honor confidentiality and/or showed sympathy to the employer who pays their contract. We think it best to find an independent, licensed mental health professional.

Counselors can be Masters-prepared (MA or MS in clinical or counseling psychology or LCSW clinical social workers). Psychologists have either a PhD or PsyD in clinical or counseling psychology.

In some states, psychiatric nurse practitioners (NP) see clients and are licensed to prescribe medications.

Psychiatrists are physicians (MD) who are able to prescribe medications for psychological distress. In most states, only psychiatrists can order medication. In some states psychiatric nurse practitioners or physicians’ assistants (ARNP, PA) can also order medication. Most counselors who are not psychiatrists work collaboratively with a professional who can prescribe and monitor medications.

You, the Customer, Hire the Helper Who is Good for You

Hiring criteria:

  • A specialist in trauma and abuse, post traumatic stress (PTSD), or one who leads treatment groups for trauma survivors
  • A specialist in anxiety disorders
  • A therapist who might use EMDR (a technique to reduce anxiety)
  • A specialist in domestic violence
  • A counselor with no conflict of interest with your employer (as former employee or spouse is employed there)
  • Have they heard the terms “workplace bullying” or “abusive conduct at work?” If not, would they be willing to learn more?

Disqualifying criterion: Some version of the following is said to you:

“I don’t care about what happened at work. Let’s work on what it is about you that attracts negative acts

against you and change you. Let’s talk about your mother.”

That person is blaming you. Walk out. Do not pay for the session (inform your insurer).

Tell everyone you know to avoid this person.

You must be a questioning, active consumer. If this threatens any therapists you screen, avoid them

WBI-Affiliated Professionals

These therapists thoroughly understand workplace bullying, work trauma, and the harm caused.

Available for telephone coaching or in-person psychotherapy.

Jessi E. Brown, Counselor

Licensed Counselor and WBI’s original Professional Coach is Jessi Eden Brown MS, LMHC, LPC, NCC, who maintains a private practice in Seattle, Washington. 206.735.7071

Dr. Beth Plachetka

Safe Harbor Counseling in Sugar Grove, Illinois (50 miles west of Chicago) is where you will find Dr. Beth Plachetka, EdD, LCSW, MAEL, MSW. 630-466-8657.