Finding the proper therapist is the first obstacle to overcome if you're contemplating therapy to rebuild a relationship, recover from a trauma, adjust to a new life phase, or enhance your mental health.
Researchers discovered that your relationship with your therapist is likely to have a significant influence on your progress. That is why, in your search for the ideal therapist for you, it is critical to conduct research, ask questions, and pay attention to your own replies.
Here are some tried-and-true strategies for locating a therapist to assist you in reaching your therapeutic objectives.
1. Check your provider directory
If you want to pay for treatment through your insurance plan, your first step may be to search the provider network of your plan.
It's also a good idea to find out whether your plan restricts the amount of sessions you may attend per year and how seeing an out-of-network therapist will effect your out-of-pocket expenses.
2. Consult a reliable person
A reference from a trusted friend, colleague, or doctor is another approach to identify a therapist who is a good fit for you.
While a referral is a fantastic place to start, keep in mind that your needs and goals for treatment may differ from those of the person making the advice.
As a result, what is a terrific fit for one of you may not be as helpful to the other.
3. Make use of a trustworthy online database
A number of mental health organizations provide searchable lists of licensed therapists that are kept up to date.
You might begin your search by simply entering your ZIP code to create a list of counselors in your region. You may also be able to find experts, such as marriage and family counselors or therapists who specialize in drug and alcohol abuse.
Some of the most popular internet search tools are:
- American Psychological Association
- American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
- Association of LGBTQ+ Psychiatrists
4. Look into local resources
Your local community may possibly be able to assist you. If you are a student, your school may provide a counseling facility.
If you work, your human resources department may provide a list of therapists who are available through a workplace wellness or employee assistance program.
If you require counseling for domestic or sexual abuse, a local advocacy organization may be able to help you obtain group or individual treatment.
If you want your faith to guide your therapy, contact your church, synagogue, mosque, or other place of worship for a list of certified therapists connected with your faith.
5. Make contact with organizations that deal with your issue
If you're seeking for a therapist to help with a specific mental health problem, a national association, network, or hotline may be able to connect you with local therapists.
Here are a few organizations that provide search tools to assist you in finding a specialist therapist near you:
- National Eating Disorders Association
- Anxiety and Depression Association of America
- National Center for PTSD
If your job causes you stress and anxiety, a professional organization may be able to connect you with local therapists.
Many of these organizations and labor unions provide tools to help you find specialists who can help you with your mental health problems. The International Association of Firefighters, for example, provides assistance with mental health, PTSD, and substance abuse.
6. Plan ahead of time what you want to achieve
What do you hope to achieve in therapy? Studies have shown that when you and your therapist work together toward the same goals, your perspective improves.
If you believe medicine would assist your symptoms, you should locate a psychiatrist or practitioner who can prescribe drugs.
If you've heard that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy have helped others with your illness, search for a therapist who has credentials or specialized training in those treatment methods.
If you want to be a part of a supporting network of people who understand your struggles, you should seek for a therapist who participates in support groups or group therapy sessions.
As you work with a therapist, your goals may shift. It is OK to consult with your therapist about modifying the course of your treatment plan as your needs change.
7. Consider using an online treatment app
Both Talkspace and Betterhelp provide tools to assist you in exploring the type of treatment you desire. They can also connect you with a qualified, accredited therapist who you can work with over the phone or online.
Some people believe that a digital treatment platform is more convenient and less expensive than in-person counseling. Weekly sessions for internet treatment cost from $35 to $80.
At least one research discovered that persons suffering from depression felt better after participating in online sessions. However, it should be noted that two of the researchers engaged in this study were either consultants or employees of the digital therapy provider utilized.
8. Inquire about the issues that are important to you
When you meet with your therapist, whether online, over the phone, or in person, it's usual to forget every question you intended to ask.
Keep paper and a pen, or a notes app, ready for a few days before your meeting to ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision. Take notes on any questions that come to mind.
The American Psychological Association offers the following questions to ask your therapist during your first session:
- Are you a state-licensed psychologist?
- How long have you been in practice?
- What do you consider your area of expertise or specialty?
- How much experience do you have working with people who have [the problem you'd like to solve]?
- What treatments have you discovered to be beneficial in treating [the issue you want to resolve]?
- What kind of insurance do you accept?
- Would I have to pay you directly and then seek reimbursement from my insurance carrier, or will you charge them?
- Are you a member of my insurance company's network?
- Do you take Medicare or Medicaid?
The Anxiety and Depression Association of America includes additional questions such as these:
- Can you prescribe medicine for me or refer me to someone who can?
- Do you make telehealth services available?
- How soon should I expect to feel better?
- What should we do if our treatment plan isn't effective?
Note: If you've ever been mistreated by someone in power, or if you've been affected by past trauma or racism, you should ask questions to see whether a possible therapist is culturally aware and sympathetic to your experiences.
9. Pay close attention to how you respond
A sense of trust and comfort should come first, regardless of how many professional accreditations your therapist has. Will treatment be unpleasant at times? Possibly. After all, you'll most likely be addressing sensitive, personal issues.
However, if you are unhappy with your therapist for any other reason, you are free to seek another.
You don't need an excuse to change therapists. It's enough to make you uncomfortable.
Here are some things to keep in mind when you speak with your therapist:
- Is the therapist interrupting you or paying close attention to what you're saying?
- How do you feel in your body throughout a treatment session? Do you get a tense feeling?
- Is the therapist considerate of your time by being on time for appointments?
- Does the therapist dismiss or dismiss your concerns?
- During your session, did you feel seen, heard, and respected?
PSYCHIATRIST VS. THERAPIST
Psychiatrists and therapists work to treat mental illnesses and enhance emotional well-being. However, there are significant contrasts between the two occupations.
Therapists
Psychologists, social workers, and counselors are examples of licensed mental health professions. They want to help individuals regulate their emotions, have healthier relationships, and gain a greater understanding of themselves.
Talk therapy and behavior modification approaches are used by therapists to assist people in making good life changes. They can analyze, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders during treatment.
People who seek therapy often desire to learn more about themselves and create long-term improvements in their life. It may also benefit persons with moderate mental illnesses.
Most therapists hold a master's degree and, in certain cases, a doctorate. All licensed therapists must have a master's degree or above.
Generally, therapists are not permitted to prescribe drugs. Certain drugs, however, can be prescribed by psychologists with specialized pharmacology training in specific jurisdictions.
Psychiatrists
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses. Psychiatrists can prescribe medicine since they have medical degrees.
Psychiatrists treat mental health disorders with a combination of talk therapy and medicines. A psychiatrist may be a better alternative for persons who have more severe symptoms and require medication to address them.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF THERAPY?
Therapy provides a number of advantages, including improved mental health, resolution of personal concerns, and increased self-awareness. Therapy can also assist people in developing new coping strategies and managing stress.
Some people regard therapy as a strategy to avoid mental health problems or to treat the underlying causes of mental health problems. Others seek counseling to help them recover from traumas or challenging life situations.
Many mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and eating disorders, respond well to therapy.
CONCLUSION
Finding a skilled therapist may make a major difference in your journey, whether you're dealing with loss, trauma, or relationship challenges, or you need therapy for a mental health condition.
To choose a reputable therapist, consider practical factors such as licensing, insurance coverage, location, and specialty.
Friends, coworkers, and healthcare professionals may be an excellent source of recommendations. You can also look for alternatives by using search tools supplied by groups that address your specific problems.