How To Find the Best Therapist for Yourself

People search to find the best therapist when they are struggling in their relationship, overwhelmed with anxiety, or have concerns with their mental health. The very first obstacle in their way is finding the right therapist. Finding the right therapist is critical because it will determine the course and success of treatment. Let’s take a look at specific aspects to consider when choosing your therapist.  

Figure out your therapy goals

 

Identify your issue the best you can. Would you need individual, couple’s or family counseling. What is the primary symptom or problem you struggle with.  

 

Here are some common concerns for which people seek therapy:

• General stress and poor work-life balance;
• Depression and feeling down;
• Anxiety, Panic Attacks or a Specific phobia (i.e. claustrophobia, social anxiety etc…)
• Interpersonal conflict; Unhealthy relationship and Co-Dependency
• Grief and loss
• Trauma

  Sometimes people may feel too overwhelmed to identify the core issue. Sometimes the problem may not be what it initially seems and there may be an underlying root issue that needs to be diagnosed by a professional. If this happens, leave it up to the therapist to guide you in developing proper treatment goals.  

 

Consider different types of therapy

 

Since there are many different reasons and mental health issues for which people seek therapy, there are different types of therapy and therapeutic approaches to consider. 

 

Some of most common and effective types of therapy include:  

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Brainpotting (BSP)

 

Understanding what type of therapy a specific therapist is trained or certified to use, can help you anticipate what to expect from their treatment. This will further help you decide if this therapist would be a good fit for you and is competent to deal with the specific issues you experience.  

 

 Search from your immediate network

 

Asking for a referral from family and friends can be a good place to start and will give you initial options to consider. Make sure to ask what worked for them with their therapist so you get an idea if those aspects would be relevant to you. Requesting a referral from your doctor is another excellent option.  

 

Use a reliable online database

Consider doing your own research through a reliable online database where you can see an up-to-date list of licensed therapists in your state. Make sure to look for a therapist who is licensed to practice in your state. Moreover, the therapist must be qualified in the type of therapy you are interested in receiving.

 

Request a Free Initial 15 min consultation

 

Many therapists offer a free initial 15 min consultation. Find out if the specialist you are interested in offers it. If this is an option, prepare for your consultation by researching and jotting down specific questions to ask.  

 

Below are some suggestions:  

• What is the therapist’s specialty and niche?
• What kind of therapy do they practice?
• What is their therapeutic approach?
• What is their expertise and years of experience with the specific issue you need help with;
• Which treatments have they found effective in resolving your problem;
• Clarify logistics: session structure and frequency, session cost (i.e. insurance based or private pay, OON options); next availability for a new patient and if there’s a waitlist;

 

Notice if there are any red flags that caught your attention.    

 

 

Most of all, make sure to pay attention to how you felt in the presence of the therapist. Did you feel at ease talking about your concerns, did you feel listened to and understood, did you feel hopeful about being helped? Connection with the therapist and how well you “click” together, is at most importance to feeling emotionally safe in order to benefit the most from your treatment. Don’t afraid to move on if you don’t quite feel right.

There is a right counselor for everyone and you will find yours!

 

Schedule your FREE 15 Minute Consultation

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