How to choose the right therapist for you.
Choosing the right therapist is a decision that can significantly impact your mental health and well-being. It also can be daunting, but finding a therapist who understands and supports your needs is essential to the therapeutic process.
I will list some topics to consider as you search for the right therapist.
Do you have a specific mental health concern, such as anxiety or depression, that you want to address? Are you in the midst of a divorce? Has a recent traumatic event upset your way of being in relation to those around you? There are many different types of therapy and innumerable paths to healing.
Questions to ask yourself as you consider what type of therapy is best for you.
Below are links to articles that describe various therapeutic methods.
Types of therapy
[external links to Psychology Today articles]
The links below are a sampling of some therapeutic approaches I utilize as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
please note: this is not a complete list of my current therapeutic approaches. As an LMFT, I am always continuing my education and adding to what I offer.
Does the therapist's gender or cultural background matter to you?
Many therapist directories highlight diversity and therapists who work with or are part of a specific community.
A suggested place to start would be the NAMI website. Though it can take several clicks to get to the detailed listing you seek, they have extensive information.
Knowing what you're looking for can help you narrow your search and find a therapist who best meets your needs.
Ask the people you know for therapist recommendations.
If you don't have any personal referrals, don't worry.
There are many online directories, such as Psychology Today, where you can search for therapists in your area and filter your search based on your specific needs. Links below…
Personal recommendations from friends, family, or healthcare providers can be a great starting point in your search for the right therapist.
Check into the credentials of any therapist you are considering.
When considering a therapist, be sure to check their credentials and experience. Look for licensed therapists with experience working with the issues you want to address.
You can look up the therapist's license status and any disciplinary actions on your state's licensing board website.
You can also check their website to understand their therapy approach better and whether it aligns with you.
Consider your budget and the location of the therapist.
Logistics, such as the therapist's location, availability, and cost, can also play a role in choosing the right therapist for you. Consider whether you prefer in-person sessions or tele-therapy and whether the therapist's availability and cost align with your schedule and budget.
A credited licensed therapist will be upfront about their fee and policies. If you have health insurance, you can ask your provider for a list of potential therapists covered by your insurance policy.
If you find a therapist outside your network, they can provide you with what is known as a super bill that will help you receive some reimbursement from your insurance company.
Here is an example of a Rates and Policies page from my website with helpful questions to ask your insurance provider.
Also, many therapists keep a few spaces available for those who need a sliding scale rate. A sliding scale considers the prospective client's financial situation and tries to work with them on the fee.
The above are all great questions to ask during your 15-minute complimentary consultation.
Schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation.
Once you have narrowed your list of potential therapists, scheduling a consultation with each is a good idea. Many therapists offer free initial consultations, which can be a great way to understand their style and personality and determine whether you feel comfortable working with them.
During the consultation, feel free to ask questions and express your concerns. A good therapist will listen attentively and provide a safe and supportive space for you.
If you want to know more about what happens during a consultation, please check out this post I created explicitly on this topic.
Trust your instincts.
Ultimately, the most crucial factor in choosing the right therapist is the therapeutic relationship between you and the therapist. You should feel comfortable and safe with your therapist and feel like they understand and respect you. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to try out a few therapists before settling on the one that's right for you.
