Finding the right therapist who you can connect with can be challenging. Like apartment-hunting in a competitive market, it can take time, and you might have some false starts.
Start by asking for recommendations from friends or family with therapy experience. By visiting their website, check that your therapist is licensed and in good standing with the regulatory board.
Schedule a Consultation
As you narrow your search for the right therapist, look for those offering initial phone or video consultations. These can last anywhere from 10-30 minutes and allow you to talk with the therapist about your mental health needs, what type of therapy they provide, and their experience with your specific issue area.
If a therapist feels your needs are outside their scope of practice or expertise, they will ethically tell you and refer you to another therapist who can help. This allows them to keep their schedules full of clients they know can benefit from their services and ensures they give their best efforts in each session, says Morrison.
Many therapists Seattle are willing to provide an initial phone or video consultation for free so you can see whether they might be a good fit for you before you commit. This can make your decision process much easier, as you’ll already be sure the therapist is a good fit for your goals and concerns.
Ask for Referrals
Getting referrals is one of the best ways to bring new clients into your therapy private practice. Whether they’re current patients or just people who found your services online, people trust recommendations from friends and family. Plus, it’s the most natural way to get new business!
Your therapist may be more comfortable discussing this topic than you are, so don’t hesitate to ask them. Ideally, you want to work with someone who has experience with the issues you are dealing with. Listen for familiarity and warmth in their answer. Another great referral source is local medical professionals, such as doctors or nurses. You can connect with these people by attending local healthcare industry events or posting flyers at their clinics and hospitals.
Look for Credentials
Depending on your needs and preferences, finding the right therapist with certain credentials may be important. You’ll want to ensure they are licensed in your state and that their specialty matches the type of therapy you need. It’s also a good idea to find out how long they have been practicing and whether or not they use evidence-based treatment.
For example, if you’re looking for a therapist who can help with anxiety, look for a therapist who uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). It’s a good idea to choose someone who has experience in treating your specific mental health concern, as well as any other issues you might be experiencing.
You can also find therapists who specialize in certain demographics, such as gender, sexual orientation, religion, and cultural background.
Check Out the Office
Finding the right therapist who makes you comfortable sharing your deepest thoughts and feelings can be tricky. The right therapist listens to you without judgment, making you feel heard and understood. You should also make sure you can trust your therapist to respect your personal and professional boundaries.
Final Thoughts
Your therapist should convey a sense of measured hope that you can work together to move forward and improve your mental health. You want to ensure their availability and office hours align with your schedule. You may have to go out of your way, but finding a therapist who works for you could be worth it.
Read more: 4 Subconscious Behaviors That Might Be A Cry For Help
Tags: finding the right therapist, mental health, therapist, therapy
