Having the right mental health care is key to promoting mental wellness. Even those with the best coping skills can find themselves overwhelmed at times, and having a qualified professional to rely on can make all the difference. Knowing where to start and what type of service is best for you can seem overwhelming, so we’ve put together this guide exploring How to Find the Right Therapist for your needs.
What Are the Different Types of Therapists?
Before you can begin your search for the best match, you first need to understand what type of service will meet your needs best. Therapy can come in many forms and include different approaches. Here are some of the most common types of therapists and mental health services:
Counseling: Talk therapy focusing on understanding and addressing issues and behaviors, both past and present.
Psychiatry: Medically-oriented care where practitioners can diagnose mental health disorders and provide medication if needed.
Psychology: Care and treatment focusing on psychological principles and approaches.
Art Therapy: Focusing on using creative arts as a form of expression, communication, and insight to improve mental and creative functioning.
Social Work: Primarily focusing on family and community dynamics, as well as broader understanding of mental health and overall wellbeing.
Holistic Therapy: Therapies that focus on improving the overall wellbeing of the individual and consider mind, body, and spirit.
What Should You Look For in a Therapist?
When you’ve identified the type of therapy that may work best for you, it’s important to narrow down your list of potential therapists and find the best fit. Here are some criteria you can consider when looking for a mental health practitioner:
Licensing & Credentials: You want to make sure you are working with someone who is licensed and qualified to be practicing in their field. Confirming a practitioner’s credentials not only ensures they have the right qualifications and experience, it also means that they prioritize ongoing education to ensure the best possible care for clients.
Specialties & Approach: All mental health practitioners have their own style, so you want to try to match your needs with a provider’s offerings. The types of diagnoses and modalities they specialize in and the approaches they take are important considerations when selecting the right therapist for you.
Fees/Payment: If therapy isn’t covered by insurance, you must also inquire about the practitioner’s fees and payment options. Some practitioners may offer discounts, sliding scales, or payment plans, so it’s important to ask rather than assuming that you won’t be able to afford services.
Location & Hours: Being able to access care when and where you need it is also important. Although having the flexibility to access online therapy via video or phone calls is an option, you may prefer an in-person visit. Noting the location and hours of operation will give you important information to ensure you’re selecting the right option.
Rapport: Perhaps the most important criteria is the rapport between you and the practitioner. You may find a clinical match and have a great consultation but make sure you feel comfortable with the person before you make a commitment.
How to Interview Your Therapist
Now that you’ve identified some potential practitioners to work with, it’s time to go through the interview process. Here are some tips and questions to help you decide which therapist is right for you:
Take the Initial Consult Flight: Most therapists offer a free initial consultation to make sure you’re a good fit. Take this time to ask questions, understand their approach and make sure you feel comfortable.
Do Your Research: Have your questions prepared before you interview the therapist and do your research. Read up on the clinician’s background and qualifications as well as any reviews.
Ask Relevant Questions: Here are some specific questions you can ask during your initial visit:
• What is your theoretical orientation?
• How do you approach different diagnoses?
• How does treatment work and what types of services do you provide?
• Do you have any experience working with people like me?
• What is the estimated length and frequency of sessions?
• How much are your fees?
• Are you and/or your services covered by insurance?
Trust Your Instincts: Lastly, and most importantly, at the end of the consultation, reflect on your experience and trust your instincts. If you don’t feel comfortable proceeding with the therapist, then don’t. You should feel heard and welcomed, and if that isn’t the case, move on to the next option.
Finding the right therapist can take some time, but with patience and perseverance, you can find the right fit who can guide you to navigate mental health and self-care. Taking the time to review the different types of therapies, consider the criteria and do an interview, will help you make an informed, empowered choice in selecting the right mental health professional for your needs.
