Gone are the days when talking about mental health issues was something shameful. The stigma attached to mental health and psychotherapy is evaporating thanks to social media and celebrities. Today, people are more aware of this serious issue and are taking their mental health in a big way. Indeed, accepting the fact that you need clinical help is difficult, but what’s even harder is finding the right therapist.
Once you have decided to seek psychotherapy, finding the right therapist is the most important task. This can be a bit overwhelming because you need to find a clinical psychologist you can connect with. You cannot make such a crucial decision in a rush because finding the right psychotherapist requires time, research, and effort. Here are some tips for finding the right therapist to ensure you get the desired results from your therapy.
Determine the Type of Therapist You Need
Before looking for a therapist, you must determine what specialist you need. When we say a “therapist” or “psychotherapist,” it can imply a psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker, or counselor; each specialist has different areas of expertise. Suppose you need to consult an orthopedist. Will you go to a cardio specialist? You won’t!
In the same way, if you’re struggling with depression, you can’t go to a professional specializing in eating disorders. The mental health field is too broad, so find a specialist for your problem. You need to research the type of therapies and therapists specializing in it.
Ask Friends and Search Online
You may take the recommendation of friends or family members if they know any experienced therapist who is right for your particular needs. If none of your friends or colleagues knows a therapist, search online. The Internet has an answer for almost every problem. Even if your friends have recommended a therapist, check their online reviews and what their website tells about their work philosophy. You can read reviews of their previous patients to know how satisfied they are with the therapy results.
Consider Licensing and Experience
Not every therapist is licensed, so check if your particular type of therapy requires a licensed therapist. If you need a licensed therapist, verify their license with your state licensing board. Check their qualification and certifications also. In addition, check if complaints have been filed against the therapist. Moreover, the therapist you’re considering should also have sufficient years of experience in your area.
Make an Early Connection
Some therapists offer consultations that can help you understand their expertise. This will also allow you to connect with the specialist so that the process goes on smoothly later. You may ask the therapist questions like how long this therapy will take, their treatment philosophy, or how they have worked to help others. An expert will always be willing to answer your every question.
