Who do I speak to?

Started on Mon, 22.02.2021 - 11:18am America/New_York
User
helwihanan
Student
Level 1
PM

Hello, I'm confused as to who I should see for my mental health issues. Should I speak with a mental health practitioner or a Muslim scholar to help me resolve my issues? 

Aiman Azlan
Provider
Youth Mentor
PM
Good question. As a general rule, you should always refer to those who are in the field related to your problem. For example, if you have an issue with your car, then you go to a mechanic - not a doctor. If you have an issue with a painful neck, then you go to a doctor - not a mechanic. In your case, a mental health issue should be referred to a mental health professional like a certified counselor, psychiatrist, or a clinical psychologist. Depending on where you live, the mental health system can vary but the basic concept outlined here still applies. 
Nadeem Ashraf
Provider
Educator/Trainer
PM
Both! depends on the issue. Ideally we need the spiritual as well as the professional touch. Ideally, a sincere caring Aalim who is well versed in counselling!
User
Sakinah
Student
Level 1
PM
Assalaamu alaikum, We are in need of assistance with mediation. The parents divorced several years ago. I am a family friend who was involved with third-party communications via email after the divorce. Eventually, they resumed direct communication by phone/text. Mother has custody - father has access. The current issue is that the father has blocked communications with the mother claiming she is abusive. The mother wants to stop access citing hate speech being taught to the children during PRIDE month. I am a new student of knowledge and recently learned the importance of verifying all matters against the Quran and Sunnah. I fear involving myself in ignorance as I once did and need proper support in order to assist this family.  Can anyone help with mediation before this issue goes back to court?  JzkAllah Khayr
Zaid Siddique
Student, Supervisor, Forum Moderator, Admin Junior
Level 1
PM

In reply to by lilly.ssenn

Walaikumusalam. Hope this finds you well. We are not professionals in this field. But  we can direct you towards our professional service providers who can help. If you're looking for mental health practitioners we have that and if you're looking for legal advice we have that as well. Or if you're looking for Islamic advice from a Muslim scholar we have that as well. Just scroll through our list of professional and experienced service providers, you'll be able to find the best one that suits your situation. May Allah make it easy for all of us Insha Allah. 
Shefa Obaid
Provider
Psychological Counselor/Psychologist
PM
Sometimes, you can find mental health professionals who are understanding of the importance of faith and can accomodate that in session. The best therapists are culturally informed in my opinion. At the end of the day, it really depends on what YOU value more and what your are comfortable with. 
Arwa Alhussain
Provider
English Translator and Tutor
PM
Alsalamalikum, It depends wether it is a mental health issue or it is a passing phase, both needs help if you can not get over it.Both seeing a mental practitioner and a Muslim scholar solves your issue Inshaalallah, but the most important of all consult whom is wise ,do Salat Alstikarah to ask Allah guidance. By making use of all available means definitely Allah will guide you to what is best for you.It is ok to cry, be sad or angry for a while, but we do not let it be a habit.We thank Allah by not being resentful as much as we can.
Diane Akkad
Provider
Integrative Health and Wellness Practitioner
PM
As salamu alaikum, as mentioned already, it is important to seek professional advice from the expert in the subject of your issue. In shaa allah you can find a mental health professional who is Muslim and practices faith based. They may refer you to a scholar for specific topics along the way.