7 Tips on Choosing a Therapist
After you’ve decided you want to see a therapist, the next question is, how do you choose one? Choosing a therapist is a significant decision and choosing the right one will be a valuable decision that can greatly impact your mental health and well-being. When you select a therapist that is a good match, you will feel open, have a clearer mind, you will be able to share things you want to work on, or things you may be stuck with. Choosing a therapist that is not a good fit can result in your issues being unaddressed and continuing to hurt your mental health and well-being.
Here are some steps to help you choose a therapist:
Seek recommendations:
Ask trusted friends, family members, or healthcare professionals for recommendations. Personal referrals can be valuable, especially if they had positive experiences with a therapist.
Research therapists:
Use online directories, professional associations, or mental health websites to find therapists in your area. Read their profiles and websites to gain insights into their qualifications, experience, and treatment philosophy. If you don’t know what specific challenges you want to address or you’re feeling stuck, do your best to explain to therapists that you meet with what you’re feeling. They can help you identify specific issues. This will also help you to consider the therapy type and approach. Research different therapy approaches to understand which one aligns with your preferences and goals.
Check credentials:
Ensure that the therapist is licensed or certified by the relevant regulatory board or professional association in your state. This information is typically available on their website or can be verified by contacting the licensing board.
Consider specialization:
If you have specific concerns like trauma, family issues or identity issues, look for therapists who specialize in those areas where you need support. You may want a couples therapist to work with you and your spouse, a therapist specializing in sex addiction to address compulsive behaviors and sexual dependency, or a trauma trained clinician to help address past trauma. These areas of specialization that therapists offer can help you explore areas in a more impactful manner.
Assess compatibility:
It's crucial to find a therapist you feel comfortable and safe with, so it’s OK to meet with a few before you commit to one. Reach out to a few potential therapists and schedule initial consultations or phone calls. Discuss your goals, ask questions about their approach, and see if you have a good rapport with them. It’s different for everyone. One person may have a great relationship with his / her therapist but you may not feel the same and vice versa. You also do not have to find someone that is culturally competent, sometimes a therapist from a different background may be the best match.
Availability and logistics:
Consider practical factors such as location, availability, session frequency, and affordability. Is the location easy to get to, near your office or home? Does the therapist offer remote sessions? Determine whether the therapist accepts your insurance or offers a sliding scale fee if cost is a concern.
Try a session:
Schedule an initial session with the therapist you believe may be a good match. During this session, you can evaluate whether you feel understood, supported, and confident in their ability to help you. Ultimately, trust your instincts when choosing a therapist. Pay attention to how you feel during your initial interactions. Do you find it easy to open up? Are you comfortable sharing with the therapist? A therapist who demonstrates empathy, listens actively, and shows genuine care for your well-being is often a good fit. Some ways that you may feel confident in their ability is their knowledge, their ability to relate, and how well you communicate together. After the session, if you don’t feel it’s a good match you can let the therapist know. It may also take a few sessions before you feel comfortable committing to a long term working relationship. Therapists meet potential clients all the time for initial consultations and won’t take it personal if it’s not the right match for either the therapist or the client.
Remember that finding the right therapist might require some trial and error. Don't be discouraged if the first therapist you try isn't the perfect fit. It's essential to find someone who understands you and creates a safe space for your healing journey. You’ve taken the time to work on yourself. The journey you will take may have its ups and downs but having the right therapist with you will allow you to grow, heal and live a healthier and happier life.
