I always say that finding a therapist is like finding that perfect pair of jeans. You know the ones: they fit your waist, make your butt look great and the more you wear them, the better they feel! Now, I definitely can’t do much about making your butt look better than it already does (have you been working out?? 😉) but that feeling you get about finding the right fit….that’s the ticket (in my humble opinion), when you are looking for a therapist.
Now, there are a ton of therapists, so the process of finding a therapist may be overwhelming. I imagine as you begin your search, you are thinking: “Where do I start?” “How do I know who to pick?” “What does half this therapy mumbo jumbo mean in their profile?” it’s like I’m in your brain, right? Well, read on to help answer some of your questions. Also, I am happy to help you understand any of the psychobabble you are seeing – just shoot me a message or email.
Because I am very passionate about people finding a therapist who is a good fit (because I have had a few who weren’t and trust me, it makes a difference!😬), here are a few of my suggestions to help you find a therapist you connect with:
- First, know why you want to see a therapist. What is the main reason you are seeking a therapist? Undoubtedly, there are multiple issues to discuss or the issue has some indirect impacts, but what is the MAIN one or the issue causing you the most stress, upset, discomfort, etc.? This is probably what you want to start with: research which therapists treat or work with this issue best and start making your list of potentials.
- Decide if you want a male or female therapist or if that matters to you at all (and it is absolutely okay if it does!).
- Then decide if you prefer online or in person counseling. Read my blog that provides some general information on both, if you are having trouble deciding.
- Choose 3-5 therapists and reach out to schedule a consultation. I know what you are thinking: “Kristin, I don’t have time to schedule these consultations!” Think about it: a 15-20 min consultation with 3-5 therapists is about an hour of your time. If you don’t schedule these and you just choose a therapist, you are wasting more than that hour of your time with a therapist, if it’s not a good fit.
- During the consultation, ask questions. It’s important for you to get a sense of who they are and how they operate as a therapist. Here are a few topics/ideas to get you started:
- Find out about the therapist:
- How long have they been practicing?
- Where did they go to school?
- What is their experience with your particular issues?
- What interests them in their specialties?
- Treatment:
- What treatment approaches do they use and can they explain them?
- Are they confrontational/direct?
- Will they involve your family?
- Are you a good fit for your practice?
- When can you expect to notice changes?
- Will you feel worse before you feel better?
- What to Expect:
- How often would we meet?
- Do you assign homework?
- Will you cry? Is that normal?
- What would a session be like?
- Who talks more? You or the therapist?
- General questions:
- Where do sessions take place?
- How long are sessions?
- Do they take insurance?
- How can you pay for sessions?
- Find out about the therapist:
Therapists all have different approaches, beliefs and personalities that are incorporated into their sessions/treatment approaches. Just like other people in our lives, not everyone is going to get along or have a connection.
What does this mean? I am giving you permission to be choosey about your therapist BUT I am not giving you permission to avoid therapy and use the lack of a connection as an excuse. Taking care of yourself is crucial so there is never an excuse for not participating in therapy, especially when there are so many different therapists offering convenient options. Happy Searching! 😊