Dash not lighting up

[jennck35]

I have a 2002 Mercury Sable, 3.0L V6 engine, 109,000 miles.
The problem I am having is at night, when I turn on my headlights, the interior dash lights are not coming on. It is only affecting the part of the dash where the speedometer/odometer/fuel gauge,etc. are located. What is also happening are my turn signal arrows are the only thing lighting up. They are not blinking, just lit up and the rest of the dash is dark. The actual turn signals are working just fine. My stereo/heat/AC backlights are still illuminated. All other interior lights seem to be fine.
Any ideas on what could be the problem with the dash lights? I can tell you if there is wiring problems there is no way i am qualified to try to fix myself...will have to take it somewhere but want to make sure i take it to the right kind of mechanic...
Thanks.