Mainz, Germany  - Be it lovesickness, a troubled relationship, anxiety or depression, emotional problems can have many causes. Therapy may help. But how do you find the right therapist?

The various occupational descriptions themselves are confusing. A psychotherapist may be a psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health professional. There are also different kinds of therapies. They include psychoanalysis, during which the patient talks about childhood experiences, and behaviour therapy with practical training, as in cases of anxiety.

First of all, it's important to admit to yourself that you've got a problem and need help," said Ulrike Rachnow, a psycho synthesis therapist in Cologne.

"To begin with, you should try to figure out yourself where the problems may lie," added Fritz Propach, a psychologist who works for the Munich-based association Pro Psychotherapie.

A search for a psychotherapist could begin on the internet. Another guiding point is a psychotherapist's area of expertise, as well as on terminology used in psychotherapy. The names can guide people seeking a therapist of a particular sex.

"During the initial sessions, it's important that the patient finds the therapist likeable and trustworthy," Propach remarked, adding, "You've got to have the feeling that the therapist can help you."

Studies have shown that a therapy's success depends to a considerable degree on whether the therapist is suited to the patient, Gropalis pointed out.

"Is it a person you'd like to share your problems with for a year or longer?" she asked.

In Germany, every therapy begins with five trial sessions. "You should be sure to take advantage of these hours and try out several therapists concurrently if possible," Gropalis advised.

It was also important to ask the therapist, if he or she is available following the trial, she noted.

Gropalis said it was also important to ensure that the therapist has proper scientific training. Diagnostically conclusive studies have been done on many psychotherapeutic methods, she noted. And though a method that has helped many people with problems similar to yours will not necessarily work for you, too, the chances of success are greater, she said. (dpa)