How to Find the Right Therapist
Okay, so you’ve decided to start therapy… now what?
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task, leading some people to begin working with a therapist who isn’t the best fit. But you have come to the right place! In this blog I will share the dos and don’ts of selecting a therapist and provide you with aspects to consider in your search.
Where Should I Look?
Though googling things like “therapist near me,” is a go-to for many people, I have found this to be an unhelpful practice. If you are familiar with google, you know that websites at the top of your search results are there because of paid advertising. Typically, the top search results will direct you to big box therapy companies. Similarly, by clicking on an ad for therapy on social medial, you will be directed to one of these companies. While they may be beneficial for some people and seem convenient at the start, I believe that the best type of therapy is customizable to fit your needs.
My suggestion is to check out Psychologytoday.com (This is where I found my therapist and she is great). You can search through the profiles of actual therapists and select specific concerns you want to work on, types of therapy offered, price ranges and more!
Another way to locate a therapist is through word of mouth. Many of my clients are referred by friends, family, or other providers. If you feel comfortable, just ask!
What to Ask:
Most therapists offer a 15-minute phone consultation to answer questions and determine if they are the right fit. Use this time to explain what you are looking for and to ask them any questions you have. Here are some ideas on what to ask during your consultation phone call:
Their availability and price.
If they have experience working with clients like you or with the problems that you are experiencing.
What they specialize in.
How they work with clients.
What to expect from therapy.
Dos and Don’ts When Finding a Therapist:
Dos:
Research
Use verified therapist directories such as Psychologytoday.com.
Interview your therapist and ask them how they can help you.
Don’ts:
Pick the first therapist you find without looking at others.
Only use big therapy companies to locate providers in their company.
Feel like you must schedule with a therapist after having a phone consultation if they do not seem to be a good fit.
To read more about this topic click below:
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The relationship between a client and their therapist is of the upmost importance. Therapeutic rapport refers to the quality and strength of this relationship. The clinical work done in sessions requires trust which is achieved by having a non-judgmental space where you can be your most vulnerable self.
Once trust is established, true work can be done. In my sessions with clients, this includes gentle challenging, reframing, redirecting, validating, feedback, and processing. By deciding to start counseling, you are taking a big step towards growth and improvement, I hope these tips help you find the right partner for your journey.
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If you have limited experience with therapy, or are unsure about the fit with your therapist, look at the examples below about green flags and red flags.
Green Flags:
- You feel understood and respected.
- Your therapist seems to have a good sense of your emotions.
- Vulnerability feels okay.
- Your therapist gives you things to work on.
- You are involved in identifying treatment goals.
Red Flags:
- You feel yourself holding back (feelings, recent events, background information).
- You fear judgement from your therapist and do not feel comfortable addressing it.
- You feel unheard.
- You aren’t getting your needs met.
- There feels like a lack of direction.
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As a therapist who attends personal therapy, I have first-hand experience working with a provider who was not right for my needs. I located the counselor through my insurance and did not take steps to ensure she was a good match for me (hey, I didn’t know how to at the time!). During this time, I felt judgement and realized that I had been holding a lot of things from her (which is the opposite of what should occur in therapy!).
I stayed in that therapeutic relationship out of convenience, fear of upsetting her by terminating, and to avoid conflict. However, once I made the decision to move on, I found a great therapist. My experience was not all negative though, as it gave me more information about what my needs were and how to express them with future therapists. While it took some time and required me to interview multiple providers, I found one who is awesome!
