How To Find A Therapist
Finding the right therapist is an important part of effective treatment. Visualize yourself as Goldilocks, trying to find the porridge that is “just right.” Therapy itself is hard work, so if you don’t vibe with your therapist, the motivation to continue therapy can disappear quickly. So, how do we find the perfect therapist porridge? What is the recipe? Read on for some tips and tricks that can help you on your way to finding the perfect match.
Put a filter on it- Determine what you are looking for in a therapist. It would be impossible to meet every therapist in your area, so narrow it down based on the factors that matter most to you. Is there a specialty you’re looking for (trauma, marriage, self-esteem, anxiety, etc.)? Are you looking for someone who takes your insurance or offers a sliding fee scale? Would you prefer in person therapy or teletherapy? Would you prefer a male or female therapist? Are you looking for a therapist with the same cultural or spiritual identity?
Start the hunt- Once you have an idea of what you’re looking for in a therapist, hop on the internet and do some searching! You can start with a simple google search of “therapists near me,” or you can head to Psychology Today and put in your city and/or zip code and a list of therapists will pop up with general info about their specialties, insurances they take, and other helpful information.
I just met you, and this is crazy, but here’s my number, so call me maybe- Does anyone remember that song, or is it just me? Now that you’ve got a list of potential therapists, call them and see when they can get you in. There may be a significant wait time, so knowing how long you’re willing to/able to wait is important. Make an initial appointment and get ready for your assessment.
You’re the boss- Being a client in a therapist office can have you feeling like you’re in the hot seat. It can be nerve wrecking and give you some seriously sweaty palms. But guess what? You are allowed to interview your therapist. If a therapist becomes defensive when asked questions, that’s a red flag my friend, move on! You are paying for these services, and you have the basic human right to ask questions too. Here are some ideas to get you started, but feel free to add your own:
What license or licenses do you have? This is a great question to make sure you’re seeing a licensed professional and to learn more about their abilities to treat based on their license. Are they a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Marriage and Family Therapist, Clinical Professional Counselor, or something else?
How long have you been practicing as a therapist?
Can you tell me about your education and any additional trainings and/or certifications?
Do you have a specialty?
Do you have experience in working with my current symptoms (insert what you would like to work on here)?
What treatments do you offer and how do they work?
How long can I expect to be receiving treatment from you?
What is your fee?
Do you have a cancellation policy?
Trust your gut- Chances are that you will be having some really difficult and uncomfortable discussions with your therapist. So go with your gut. If you felt like there’s a possibility that you could feel safe with them to do the hard work, give it a shot. Ask yourself if during the first meeting your therapist appeared kind, compassionate, and non-judgmental? Did you feel heard during your assessment? If you answered “yes” to these questions, take the leap. Worst case scenario is that you don’t develop that therapeutic rapport and you gracefully let them know you would like to find another therapist.
Starting therapy can be really intimating, so congratulations on taking a very brave step! It’s worth the work. Finding a therapist you connect well with help you feel connected and motivated to continue therapy. I am rooting for you and your future therapist!