How To Find The Right Therapist
Finding a new therapist can be a difficult and frustrating process. Many mental health providers are fully booked and some providers aren’t getting back to you. Even if the waitlist seems long don’t settle for a counselor that you don’t feel great working with. The therapeutic relationship between the client and the therapist is an important catalyst for healing and growth. You don’t want to be real and vulnerable with someone who you feel is judging you, commanding you, or not seeming to listen to your needs. Here are some helpful tips for finding the right therapist for you.
Ask Around:
See if you have any friends or trusted family members who have a therapist they like or would recommend. Oftentimes, if the people we are close to click with a provider the chances of you liking the same provider are high.
Ask Questions:
If you see a therapist profile that you are interested in working with then inquire if they will set up a free consultation call for you to get to know them. Be prepared to ask the questions that matter to you. Have they worked with people going through a similar situation? Do they take your insurance? What are their specialties? Do they offer a sliding scale? What is their therapy style?
Notice How You Feel:
If you decide to meet with a therapist for a session then check in with yourself after. Notice if you felt comfortable with them, if you felt like they understood you, and if they wanted to know your treatment goals. Sometimes the therapist might jump right into giving you ways to “fix” your problems or assume that your problem is something different from what you are reporting. If you feel that you are being pushed or redirected too often in the session that might not be a good sign for your work ahead.
Be Willing To Give Feedback:
If you feel that your therapist isn’t connecting with your needs or goals then it is okay to share that with them. The relationship that you have with your therapist is meant to be helpful to you and your growth. If you feel that something is missing during your sessions feel free to share that with them and allow for collaboration.
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