Finding the right therapist isn’t as easy as searching online and choosing one at random. There’s a lot of research that goes into the process, as the therapist you choose must be someone you not only trust but also feel comfortable and at ease with. Your search will be a two-pronged approach that first starts with defining your own goals and assessing your financial resources, then moves on to the active search.
In the end, you will hopefully find a match that you can rely on for years to come, whether you are seeking family therapy, couples therapy, or individual therapy.
Define Your Goals
First things first: what do you need help with? What are your goals of therapy? By working through these things first, you will have a better idea of what to ask for and what to expect out of your sessions. Having clear goals at the start will help you and your therapist do the hard work together to achieve the same goals. You can do this on your own, and then again with your therapist as a team effort.
That’s not to say your goals won’t change over the coming weeks, months and even years. People change, and therefore goals change. Whether in regards to the type of therapy you need to the type of treatment you would be open to, goal-setting should be a fluid process that should be re-evaluated from time to time.
Assess Your Finances
Quality therapy isn’t cheap, and it’s not always covered by insurance, which means you will have to pay most, if not all, out of your pocket. It’s important to know your budget and coverage options ahead of time so you can find a therapist you are not only comfortable with but that you can afford. Making your budget and care goals align can be tricky, but don’t worry: you’ll find the right financial fit that can provide you with affordable therapeutic care for the long term.
Get a Trustworthy Referral
A good place to start is with a referral from someone you trust. Online reviews are also a good jumping off point, but they don’t tell the whole story. Ask your primary care doctor for recommendations, as well as close friends, neighbors, colleague, and anyone else you feel comfortable asking for a personal recommendation.
Ask Specific Questions
Whether you’ve committed to a therapist or you’ve narrowed down your choices to a few, it’s important to have an initial consultation to ensure the fit is right. This is your opportunity to ask questions beyond the basics you may have previously asked on the phone about payment and availability.
Starting therapy off with an open mind will help you identify areas you want to work on. You may find out that those areas you thought took center stage are only at the surface, with the deeper meanings lying below.
The American Psychological Association suggests asking these questions during your first session.
- How many years have you been practicing?
- Are you a licensed psychologist in this state?
- How much experience do you have dealing with my specific issue?
- What is your specialty or area of expertise?
- What kinds of treatments do you find effective in resolving my type of issue?
The Anxiety and Depression Association of America goes a step further and adds these questions:
- If medication is required, are you able to prescribe it or will you recommend someone who can?
- Do you provide telehealth services?
- How soon should I expect to start feeling better?
- What happens if the treatment plan isn’t working?
- How can I help in my own recovery?
During this visit, you’ll also want to be on the lookout for any red flags. Remember, not all therapists will be a good fit. It may take a few to find the one you truly connect with.
Consider these factors:
- Does the room feel private and secure or does it make you feel uncomfortable?
- Do you have overwhelming feelings of anxiety or panic while there? While nerves are a common factor, especially in that first visit, a full-on panic attack could signal something more.
- Do you feel comfortable telling this therapist everything, or do you feel like you want to hold back? Do you feel judged or uneasy, or calm and open?
- Is the therapist completely present throughout your session? Are they paying rapt attention and taking detailed notes or do they seem detached?
Once you have gotten the answers to your questions and feel a high level of comfort with a therapist, you can get peace of mind knowing you’ve checked all the boxes.
Contact Us for a Free Initial Consultation
If you’re looking for a therapist to guide you through your mental health challenges, we encourage you to try us out and schedule your free consultation with Growing Together Preventive & Psychological Services. From individual to couples therapy, we offer a variety of therapy services throughout Danville, CA, and beyond.
