How to Find a Good Therapist

Choosing the right therapist is the first step when considering therapy. Whether the goal is to improve a relationship, cope with trauma, or improve mental well-being, it is important that you establish connection and rapport with your therapist. It can be difficult for some people to find a suitable therapist near me since the options in their area are limited. Despite the challenges, it is crucial to put in the effort to find the right therapist near me, as they can assist in developing and managing your mental health. 

You may need to invest time and effort in looking for a therapist, especially, when you are new to therapy. There are numerous professionals that offer therapy, including those in psychology, psychiatry, social work, and counseling. When searching for a therapist, you may need to consider the following:

Choose your therapy type. 

When selecting a therapist, the first step is to decide on the type of therapy that aligns with your goals. There are various forms of therapy that can be done with a therapist. Some therapists are skilled in providing multiple types of therapy.

Check your health insurance and budget. 

The cost of therapy can vary widely depending on where you receive it. Some therapy options may be free, while online therapy can be a cost-effective option. Other therapists may have a higher cost. Before scheduling appointments, check first with your insurance provider to see what they cover and to determine the maximum amount you are willing to pay for therapy each month. This will help in identifying therapists that fit within your budget.

Consider referrals. 

Referrals can be an effective method for finding a therapist. Personal recommendations from loved ones can provide valuable insights about a good therapist. Remember that just because a therapist works well for your loved one does not mean they will work well for you.Ultimately, finding the right therapist depends on your personal needs and therapy goals.

Ask questions about their credentials. 

When evaluating potential therapists, verify their credentials to ensure they are qualified. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), a therapist should be licensed to practice in the state or region where they are located. Additionally, therapists may hold specific credentials for the type of therapy they offer, such as exposure therapy.

Explore local resources. 

Your local community may also have resources available to help you find a therapist. If you are a student, your school may offer access to a counseling center. If you are employed, your human resources department may provide a list of therapists through an employee assistance program. If you need trauma counseling, you may be able to find group or individual therapy through a local advocacy organization. If you want your faith to be a part of your treatment, you may consider contacting your church or other place of worship for a list of licensed therapists who align with your faith.

Use a legitimate online database. 

Many mental health organizations keep searchable and up-to-date directories of licensed therapists.A simple way to start your search is by entering your zip code to generate a list of counselors in your area. You can also search for specialists, such as marriage and family counselors or therapists who specialize in drug and alcohol use.

Some of the most commonly used online search tools include:

• American Psychological Association
• American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists
• Association of LGBTQ+ Psychiatrists

Figure out your therapy goals. 

Communicate your goals for therapy upfront with your therapist. Some issues, such as relationships and stress, may not require a therapist with specialized training. However, specific health conditions like depression may benefit from it. If you are not sure what to focus on but want to talk to someone, a good therapist near me will help you identify your goals and work towards them through therapy. 

Try online therapy. 

Online therapy can be a convenient option for many people, especially if there are limited options for therapists in your area. Online therapy can be accessed through various apps. Ensure that the therapist you choose through online therapy is licensed and specialized to meet your needs. Some online therapy apps offer the option to easily switch therapists if you’re not satisfied, allowing you to quickly try multiple therapists until you find the right fit.

Try a few therapists first. 

Finding the right therapist is trial and error. It is common for people to try out several therapists near me before finding a good match. Once a good connection is established with a therapist, the relationship can have a long-term positive impact. In short, the process of finding the right therapist may take time, but it is worth the effort.

Pay attention to your responses. 

Ultimately, trust and comfort should be the primary factors in choosing a therapist, regardless of their professional credentials. It is normal for therapy to bring you discomfort at times since you will likely be discussing personal and difficult topics. If you feel uncomfortable with your therapist for any other reason, it is okay to seek out another therapist. There is no need to provide a specific reason for switching therapists, your comfort level alone is enough.

If you are considering a good therapist near me, visit Mindshift Psychological Services. Learn more about our therapists and services on our website. You may also contact us at (714) 584-9700 to schedule an appointment.