Finding the best Therapist for You

A little work upfront can reap great rewards.

Finding a therapist – In my experience, the best place to start is with any friends, family, your doctor, etc. who can make a recommendation.

No luck? Try psychologytoday.com this site allows you to search for a therapist based on zip code, insurance, treatment modalities and much more. This site also provides a link to the clinician’s website from their profile page.

Next, take your time, look through their website, profile page, get a feel for their personality and approach. Take note of any questions as you look. Think about what is most important to you – gender, race, experience, treatments offered, cost – let that guide you.

If you have narrowed it down to a few, then it’s time to reach out. Most (not all) clinicians offer a free initial phone consultation. I strongly encourage everyone to take advantage of this. It’s your opportunity to ask questions, get information and most importantly, get an initial sense of if it is a fit.

Some time ago I did an initial consultation and when she asked about my style I said that I am ‘high energy’ and sessions are interactive. That wasn’t what she was looking for and I’m so glad we were able to find this out before spending time and money when I just wasn’t the right fit for her.

Ask for what you want. If you want homework between sessions or you want book or other media recommendations let them know that from the beginning (ideally in the consultation).

Finally, remember you have choices. If you realize it isn’t working, say that and move on. A good therapist would tell you that you are not responsible for the therapist’s emotions. If they have an issue with you not thinking it’s a fit, that issue is probably about their stuff.