How To Find The Right Therapist
How To Find The Right Therapist
Written by Lily Thrope
If you are currently reading this, you are likely looking for tips to find the right therapist. With so many therapists out there, finding the right person to work with can feel like a needle in a haystack. However, it’s not impossible to find a suitable therapist for yourself. Here are a few things to be thoughtful about when seeking a therapist:
First, narrow down what you are looking for. Ask yourself what kind of therapist you see yourself working with best. Would you feel more comfortable speaking to a therapist of the same sexual identity or cultural background? Is there a specific age you prefer to work with? It can also be helpful to consider the modality of therapy. Are you interested in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, or more of a holistic approach?
If you are opting to start therapy, you might have a few specific reasons for seeking help. It may be helpful to keep these in mind when choosing a therapist. Therapists often specialize in different things, and it could be helpful to choose one who is aligned with your needs. It’s also okay if you don’t have any specific issues and are looking to dig deeper with your therapist.
Use your network. Websites like Psychology Today are a great place to start in your search for a therapist, but can oftentimes feel overwhelming. Sometimes the best references can come from your friends and family. Once you acquire some referrals, check out their websites to see if they seem like a good fit..
While therapy is a valuable asset, there is a financial component that can be challenging for some. It’s important to address your finances and be realistic with yourself about your budget when pursuing therapy. Ask yourself what you will be able to afford and how you will finance it. Some therapists work with insurance companies, while others operate out-of-network and can provide information for reimbursement if out-of-network benefits are available to you. Some therapists also have sliding scale options to help make therapy more accessible.
Next, consider how you would like to meet for therapy. Are you hoping to meet in person, or rather virtually? Are there any accessibility issues that require you to meet virtually?
When meeting with the therapist for the first time, it’s important to ask yourself the following questions:
Do I feel safe?
Does this person feel trustworthy?
Do I feel respected?
Do I feel comfortable opening up to this person?
You may not be able to answer all of these questions during the intake call, but you should be able to get an overall vibe. Trust your gut - if something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to keep looking for other options.
At Thrope Therapy, we specialize in anxiety, body image, eating disorder recovery and more. Our therapists prioritize bringing their authenticity to each session. We aim to help you start living a life that is aligned with your own values and beliefs. Finding the right therapist is a process, and it’s okay if you don’t find your perfect fit right off the bat. Remain patient and positive - the most important thing is to take that first step towards improving your mental health.
Right now we offer both in-person and virtual sessions. If you are interested in meeting, schedule your free 15 minute consultation today. Let’s get started!
