It's estimated that more than 350 million people worldwide suffer from depression, according to the World Health Organization. As one of the most common mental issues, depression may range from occasionally feeling blue to sever or persistent problems. That said, depression treatment can successfully help you to overcome this condition and make your way through a challenging time. Where should you start? Finding a qualified therapist is the first step to treatment. Before you decide on a route to take, talking to a pro can help you to understand your options and make an informed choice.

How can you pick the 'right' therapist? This is a personal decision based on your preferences, degree of depression and needs. Knowing what questions to ask a potential professional can help you to choose the therapist who best meets your needs.

1. Do you provide between-session contact? One of the questions that the Anxiety and Depression Association of America suggests asking before deciding on depression treatment is if the therapist allows patient contact in between therapy sessions. For example, you have an unexpected situation arise that triggers powerful feelings or you just feel like you need to talk to someone (who knows you and is an expert on your situation). But, you don't have a session scheduled for a few more days. Does the therapist encourage a phone conversation or so you need to make a new, and earlier, appointment?
2. What insurance does the doctor take? On the practical side of finding a therapist, you need to know if your insurance plan covers the depression treatment. Call ahead and ask if the practice accepts your insurance. You may also want to talk to your insurance provider as well, asking what percent of therapy costs they cover.
3. Are family members allowed/encouraged? Some depression treatments include the help and support of those closest to you. Ask if the therapist will want you to bring in your spouse, parents, children or other people who are close to you during the course of your treatment.
4. When is the office open? Even though treating your depression is a major concern, you also have other aspects of your life. Whether you need to schedule around your work day, your child's school pick-up/drop-off or you have other needs, make sure that you can get an appointment without having to miss out on other things. Some therapists offer evening or weekend hours for convenience of scheduling.
5. What type of depression treatment does the therapist offer? Not all experts use the same techniques. The National Institute of Mental Health notes that psychotherapy may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (restructuring your negative thought patterns) or interpersonal therapy (working through your depression by understanding how relationships affect you).

Working with a qualified, licensed therapist who meets your needs can help you to overcome depression and get back on track. Knowing what questions to ask before picking a pro allows you to make a match that works for you!

To learn more about depression treatment, contact a treatment center like Dr Kuris Counseling Centers.