ummm...help?

[jpmfsabo.livejournal.com]

Okay, so I'm working on getting some consultations with a few local providers. I'm looking at a psychologist first, but there's also a counselor (whose practice is geographically closer) that I have the option of seeing.

Now, I've tried to read the S.O.C., and it isn't so hard, but so far it doesn't really offer much in the way of practical starting advice. What are some questions I should ask before spending time (and money) on a mental health care provider? Are there any particular qualifications I might look for?

Additionally, I may be able to select a G.P. (hope I got that right) while I still have medical coverage. Again there are a few recommendations from the local message boards that happen to contract with my HMO. Is that in itself enough? I admit that I've never had the luxury of choosing my own doctor, so if this all wasn't complicated enough...

Any help will be greatly appreciated. Thanks!