Finding a therapist can feel like a daunting task. There are so many things to consider that it becomes a process. Especially when you factor in that not every therapist will be a good fit for you. Research has shown that the relationship between you and your therapist is one of the most important factors that can affect your growth in therapy.
So, how do you go about finding someone? Here are a few tips to helping you choose the right therapist for you.
Tip #1 - Find Therapists
Contact your insurance company. They should have a provider directory that includes a list of therapists that accept your insurance.
The internet can be your friend. Sites like psychologytoday.com and therapyden.com allow you to search for therapists in your area and filter searches to fit your specific needs.
Ask someone you trust. Your doctor, friends, family, etc. can be a great resource for finding someone.
Utilize your local resources. Resources such as schools, churches, and advocacy organizations often have lists of therapists that they recommend.
Tip #2 - Ask Yourself Questions
It's hard to know what you need if you haven't yet given it any thought. It can be helpful to ask yourself some questions to better prepare you for choosing the right therapist. Therapy isn't one size fits all. What someone else needs may not be what we need and vice versa.
What are you hoping to get out of therapy?
What are you looking for in a therapist?
What kind of support are you looking for?
Tip #3 - Ask potential therapists questions about things that matter to you
After asking yourself those questions about what you're looking for, make sure that you ask potential therapists about what matters to you to help make sure that they are a good fit. Below are a couple suggestions.
How much experience do you have working with people who are dealing with [issue you're seeking therapy for]?
How do you approach therapy?
What kinds of treatments have you found helpful in resolving [issue you're seeking therapy for]?
What do we do if our treatment plan isn't working?
Tip #4 - Ask yourself how you feel after talking to the potential therapist
Did you feel comfortable with the therapist?
Did the therapist actually listen to what you were saying?
Did they validate your concerns?
Did you feel respected?
It may take a couple tries to choose the right therapist for you. However, once you find the right person, it makes all the difference. If you start with a therapist and decide that it isn't working out, that's okay! You know the phrase, "there's a lid for every pot" when it comes to relationships? It is true in therapy as well. Your therapist should not be offended and understand that they may not meet your needs.
Are you still looking for the "lid" to your "pot"? Contact Calibrations Counseling & Consultation today to schedule and see if we can meet your needs!
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