can be understood and repaired. It's one thing to study all the theoretical approaches to effective social work, it's quite something else to know the nature of the beast by personal experience. Since we can't all be poor or homeless or or homeless military veteran, for instance, we need to read the chronicles of those who have successfully navigated this difficult terrain. One such resource I've found and recommend is: "Down Town: True Tales of Trial and Triumph on the Mean Streets" by the NASNA 2003 Award winning author Robert E. Lipscomb of St. Louis. http://www.eaglesviewpress.com Read this, thank me later. Peace. I agree with Doris Jeanette that credentials don't mean much. A therapist can have credentials out the wahzoo, and still not be a good therapist. I am not sure I favor credentialing rules in states ... frankly, there are people with no graduate degree who are very effective therapists and many with Doctorates who are not at all suited for the role. I had excellent therapy as a client with an English professor who had Gestalt training. This was in the 1970s and now someone without a counseling or related degree would not be allowed to do that in that particular state. Looking for psychiatrist who is comfortable w/ alternative therapy. Had reaction to topamax which started anxiety and now multiple medication reactions. Don't want to be "zoned out" the rest of my life! Want my chemistry corrected. Are there any out there in the No. VA area?