DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY RANKED AS TOP ISSUES IN THERAPY SESSIONS

Survey Conducted by California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists San Diego, September 20, 2006 - Depression and anxiety are the top mental health conditions patients bring to therapy sessions according to a 2006 Member Practice and Demographic Survey conducted by the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.

Commonly known as "relationship experts," findings suggest Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) specialize in areas where it is often assumed that MFTs are not utilized. They reported frequently counseling patients on issues relating to depression (86.1%), anxiety (81%), selfesteem/personal growth (75%), post-traumatic stress disorder (58.9%), grief (46.7%) and parenting(44.9%).

In California, there are more than 16,000 licensed members in the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists who practice early crisis intervention and brief, focused psychotherapy to resolve problems or reduce symptoms.

The study also indicated that most therapists have been licensed for more than 10 years and undergo extensive training as the licensing process is similar to other mental health professionals. Approximately 80% hold a master's degree with an additional 15% possessing a doctorate. In addition, they have sufficient training to work with culturally diverse patients and attend at least 22 hours of continuing education training each year.

Therapy offers a very cost-effective solution to help manage mental health issues. The average hourly rate to meet with a therapist is under $100.00 and most therapists offer a variety of payment options that include credit cards, cash, or insurance.

Marriage and Family Therapy is highly effective because of the "systemic" orientation that its therapists bring to treatment. MFTs believe that an individual's emotional concerns or issues can be more meaningful and productive when treated within the context of his or her current or prior relationships.

To learn more about Marriage and Family Therapists and to locate a therapist, visit California's online mental health resource, www.CounselingCalifornia.com.

About CAMFT
The California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, with 27 chapters throughout the state, is an independent professional organization, representing the interests of licensed Marriage and Family Therapists. CAMFT provides www.CounselingCalifornia.com as a resource to the public looking for Marriage and Family Therapists located in California. For more information about CAMFT, please call (858) 292-2638 or visit www.camft.org.

Media Contact: Amber Albrecht
Porter Novelli
Phone: (619) 687-7015 or (949) 500-2535
E-mail: amber.albrecht@porternovelli.com