How To Find The Right Therapist
In today’s society, seeing a therapist is more common than you might think. According to Statista, in 2020, around 41.4 million adults in the United States received treatment or counseling for their mental health within the past year. Many individuals experience struggles that require more than advice from family and friends.
Once you’ve determined that seeing a therapist makes sense, finding the one that’s right for you is the next step. In reality, a therapist is a stranger with whom you will be sharing very personal information. Oftentimes, you’ll find yourself feeling vulnerable. It is crucial to work with someone who is empathetic, respectful, honest and non-judgmental. Identifying the ideal therapist will require research, asking questions, and self awareness. The time and effort will be well worth it.
Here are some tips and tricks for finding a therapist who can better help you reach your personal goals.
1. Utilize Trustworthy Resources
There are countless therapists in every city, making it impossible to interview all of them. One of the most efficient ways to narrow down the list of potential candidates is to identify your priorities. At the end of the day, what is most important to you?
Cost
Location
Gender
Experience
Approach
All of these factors are important in one way or another. However, creating some type of hierarchy will serve you well. Ensuring you check the boxes at the top of your list will increase your chances of finding a therapist who can help to get you positive results. This PsychCentral Article is a great place to start your search.
2. Consider A Trusted Referral
Tap into your personal network. If you know of someone who has seen a therapist and had success, consider asking them for that therapist’s information. It would be wise to reach out to people who understand your personality, priorities and even some of the issues you are looking to overcome.
Of course, you also want it to be someone with whom you feel comfortable sharing the information that you are seeking therapy. It is definitely not something to be embarrassed about, but it is understandably a personal matter that you may not want to disclose to just anyone. Once you’ve received some names of suggested therapists, due diligence of your own is still important. Ultimately, no one understands your needs better than you.
3. Tap Into Relevant Organizations
Depending on your specific issue, reaching out to a national association, network, or helpline is a beneficial course of action. There are organizations that specialize in all areas of mental health which have access to many tools and resources. This ChoosingTherapy.com article provides a robust list of top mental health organizations and nonprofits.
4. The Right Questions Lead To The Right Therapist
Asking questions about the things that matter most to you is extremely important. You’ll likely want to take into account the different approaches and strategies used by each therapist. You’ll want to ask about his or her credentials, including their areas of expertise. In fact, it is common for therapists to have initial consultations with potential clients. They also want to ensure a good match. If they act irritated or are not open to having this meeting, you should take that as a red flag and continue your search elsewhere.
Set Yourself Up For Success
Therapy can be a powerful tool in overcoming life’s obstacles and struggles. In order for it to actually work, you need to find someone you trust. Someone who makes you feel understood and doesn’t focus on your weaknesses but rather helps to build upon your strengths. The right therapist will allow you to become more self-aware and to ultimately possess the coping skills to independently lead a happier, healthier life.
Connections Counseling has the necessary experience and effective approaches to meet you where you are in your personal journey. Brittany Katz believes that therapy goes beyond providing a safe place to vent. She is committed to teaching her clients the skills and techniques necessary for making positive life changes that will last.
Want to see if Brittany could be the right therapist for you? Reach out today for a free 15-minute phone consultation and ask all the questions you’d like!
