Lost in the Search? You’re Closer to Finding a Therapist Than You Think
Choose You Today.
Therapy? Am I really to that point? Damn, is it that bad? Am I crazy…blowing this out of proportion?
Regardless of the narratives that have led you to seek therapy, you’re here. That means you woke up today and chose yourself. Now that you’ve taken the first step, let’s discuss ways to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Honestly, choosing a therapist after reading 1,001 profiles can start to feel overwhelming and exhausting. I hear you through the screen; so what am I supposed to do? Sometimes, finding a therapist is a matter of trial and error. It’s okay if the first, second, and maybe third therapist doesn't “work out.” Unfortunately, we can’t tell everything through a clinician’s bio. However, I hope that the tips I’ll offer you will help you feel more confident in finding a therapist who is a good overall fit.
Building a relationship with your mental health clinician is a collective process, not a one-sided dynamic. While you don’t have to show up knowing all aspects of yourself, it can be helpful to consider some of your “stuck” areas. Essentially, what am I looking to work on in therapy? Beginning with even a minimal level of insight allows you to pinpoint how your clinician can support your needs.
Where Do I Look
We’re living in a time where information is readily accessible at our fingertips. A single Google search for “therapist in my area” can yield a variety of mental health clinicians and therapy directories. If you’re new to therapy, utilizing directories can be a great starting place for finding a therapist. Most directories allow you to filter different specifications (location, insurance, gender, price range, etc.) as you narrow down a potential therapeutic fit. While there are many directories, here are a few to get you started.
I Found The One
Finding a therapist can bring up a plethora of thoughts, “What will they think of me?”; “What if I don’t know what to say?”; and many more. It’s typical to feel both anxious and excited when you’ve found your therapist. Believe it or not, therapists have similar experiences. In other words, we’re all having a human experience. To help manage feelings of uncertainty, I recommend scheduling a phone consultation with your potential therapist, should they offer them. Typically, this information can be found on their website, profile page, or answered by emailing them directly.
Phone consultations are a great way to ask questions and assess the therapeutic fit in real time. Essentially, do I like the vibe of this person I’m speaking to? While we can’t tell everything from a phone call, here are a couple of questions to consider asking during your next consultation:
Specialties - does this therapist have experience with my specific issue
Therapeutic approach - which therapy modalities will be used; does it resonate with you
Location - do they offer in-person sessions or telehealth alternatives
Fee structure - are sessions private pay (out-of-pocket), insurance-based, or a sliding scale fee
Availability - does my schedule and that of the therapist align
The Power of Choice
You have the right to change your mind about any therapeutic relationship that doesn’t feel like a “fit.” There is a vulnerability in inviting someone along your journey. A therapist will respect your decision without judgment. The process of finding your therapist is different for everyone. So, “if at first you don’t succeed, dust yourself off and try again.”