Finding The “Right” Therapist

Finding a good therapist can feel like an overwhelming task. However, it is worth the effort to connect with someone who is the right fit for you. There are a number of different factors you should consider such as area of expertise, cost, personality, and therapeutic approach. Here are some tips to help you find a therapist who can help you with your mental health needs.

1. Determine your needs

Before you start searching for a therapist, it's important to determine what you need. Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Do you need help with a specific issue, such as grief or trauma? Narrowing down what you hope to address in therapy will allow you to find a therapist who specializes in your area of concern.

2. Ask for recommendations

Ask your primary care physician, friends, or family members for recommendations. You can also search for therapists online or social media. There are search engines such as Psychology Today and ZocDoc that provide directories of mental health providers, Make a list of potential therapists and research their credentials, experience, and specialties.

3. Consider their approach

Different therapists use different approaches to therapy, so it's important to find one whose approach works for you. Some therapists use cognitive-behavioral therapy, while others use psychodynamic therapy or other approaches. Research the different approaches to therapy and determine which one resonates with you.

4. Ask questions and voice your concerns

It’s ok to ask questions and share concerns regarding your treatment. Remember that you are building a relationship with your therapist and it may take a few sessions to feel comfortable. If your sessions are not going in the direction you hoped, your therapist should welcome and encourage feedback.

5. Consider logistics

Consider the logistics of therapy, such as the therapist's location, availability, and fees. Make sure the therapist's hours and location work for you, and that their fees are within your budget. If you have insurance, check to see if the therapist is in your network or if you are eligible for out-of-network reimbursement. Most out-of-network therapists will prove a superbill upon request to submit for out-of-network reimbursement.

6. Don’t be discouraged by waitlists

It is not uncommon for therapists to have waitlists. It’s best to add yourself to a waitlist from providers that you feel could be a good fit. You can continue to search for other therapists knowing that you have other multiple potential options. Typically, the wait time for a therapist may be a few weeks to a few months.

Finding a good therapist takes time and effort, but it's worth it to find someone who can help you on your wellness journey. If you find someone that you think may be a good fit, take time to look through their website or social media accounts to get a better feel for who they are and how they may help you. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident that your therapist is meeting your needs.