[Cecil Terwilliger]

Finding the right doctor is a start. Need someone who can help him get the right medication and dosage. As Dion says people often try several before one works and doesn’t have too many terrible side effects.

Therapist is tougher. There’s different types of therapy methods. CBT and DBT being common. Different education designations, MC, MSW, RSW etc. More education and experience usually means higher cost. Upwards of $200/hr. He may respond better to a male or female, someone older or younger. More spiritual or solution focused.

On thing you’ve got right is not forcing him thru it but also being supportive. It’s a fine line.

You’re also correct that there’s no magic bullet. He needs to buy into it. Therapists nowadays tend to focus on setting and achieving goals. It’s not like on TV where the therapist let’s them talk about their family on and on then all of a sudden there’s a revelation about their childhood and boom the person is cured. That’s not to say they don’t try and uncover underlying causes but don’t tend to dwell there. He’s definitely going to have a hard time if he’s not willing (or able) to put in an equal amount of work at and away from his sessions. And you want to support him without constantly having to hold him accountable. That’s probably best left to himself and his therapist.

Good luck.