With the availability of a large number of options, oftentimes one gets confused on what to choose or which option to go with, especially with the technical and medical terms and expertise of therapists it can get challenging to decide on who to seek help from.
Finding an appropriate therapist who is the right fit is crucial to the process of healing for the individuals dealing with trauma or seeking help for any mental health concerns. A few steps that can help you in choosing the therapist that can aid you and meet your needs are given below.
1. Identify your Certain Needs
It is an important aspect that will also impact the rapport between you and your therapist. Seek out the information and identify what are your specific needs or goals going into therapy and what kind of therapy you want to take, do you want to work on your cognitions with cognitive behavioral therapy, or you require relaxation therapy or psychodynamic psychotherapy or trauma focused therapy etc. and reach out to the experts accordingly. Moreover, consider other factors such as gender preferences, cultural background, or specializations.
2. Seek Recommendations
Ask for recommendations from entrusted friends, family or people in your social circle. You can make use of online resources and look for different organizations or independently working experts in the field through directories or business websites. Here are a few: ZocDoc, PsychologyToday, Mental Health Match, Headway, and Alma to name a few. There are many applications that will help you find qualified experts in your area for therapy.
3. Conduct Thorough Research
Take your time to decide on the therapist you would like to see. Most of the therapists will have an online presence and have shared their areas of expertise, years of experience, their approach towards therapy, this insight will help you make a more informed decision and find someone who’s aligned with your needs and expectations for your therapeutic goals.
4. Schedule an Initial Consultation
It is a practice by therapists to schedule an initial clinical interview to briefly discuss your problems and ask you about your goals and needs. Ask questions and explore whether your therapist’s approach is comfortable and aligned with yours.
5. Take into Account of Practical Factors
Consider significant practical factors when choosing your therapist. These include taking into account the location, cost of reaching the office and therapists availability. Make sure your therapist’s fee and availability fit into your budget and schedule to avoid future complications. Some may take insurance and are private pay or may only be private pay. What works for you?
6. Trust your Instincts
Trust your instincts when it comes to choosing a therapist. In an initial meeting you will know if you can feel comfortable and entrust opening up to this person. It is one of the most important factors and therapeutic alliance you build effects highly on the outcome of therapy so make sure you make long term therapeutic goals with someone you have a proper rapport with.
Be aware of your needs, conduct a detailed research , consider all the practical and emotional aspects of the process and only choose the individual you feel you can build a rapport with and work on long term goals with.
