FinDing the right therapist for you
You may have found yourself thinking: “I should probably talk to someone.” This question often leads to another question – “How can I find the right therapist for me without wasting my money, time or vulnerability?”
Taking care of our mental health is equally as important as taking care of our physical health. Talking with a therapist is often a great place to start. Research demonstrates that the relationship you have with your therapist is the most important predictor of your therapeutic success.
Erin & I own Comm Counselling Co. so it probably comes as no surprises that we love therapy. Both of us have had negative experiences going to therapy. We know firsthand that it can be exhausting finding a therapist that’s the right fit.
Read below to find Comm’s tips for finding the therapeutic support you’re looking for.
Narrow Your Options: Searching Google and Psychologytoday.com can lead to sifting through a large list of therapists. With so many people to choose from in your area, it is helpful to narrow down your options.
To begin narrowing down your options ask yourself a couple of important questions. What matters most to me about my therapist: Gender? Age? Specialization? Education? Experience with your personal, presenting concern?
Pro Tip: You can ask therapists if they provide free phone consultations. At Comm Counselling we offer 15 minute free phone consultations to all of our clients. It can be easier to get a feel for your clinician over the phone. This provides the perfect opportunity to see if you’re able to connect with them.
Never underestimate Word of Mouth! Ask people you know and trust if they have heard of any they would recommend!
Cost - It is important to start thinking about how you will be paying for therapy. If you’re using insurance, make sure the therapists credentials match those required by your insurance provider. If you’re paying out of pocket but want to be mindful of budget it is important to look for potential therapists who offer a sliding scale. Comm Counselling Co. offers a sliding scale!
Red Flags - Lastly, when meeting with your potential therapist be mindful of a couple therapist red flags. It is normal for a therapist to say, “Wow I love your shoes, where are they from? It is not normal for your therapist to say, “I also feel like my partner is always criticizing me.” This is an example of an inappropriate self disclosure. Your therapist should not be talking more than you. Your therapist should not be interrupting you or talking over you. The right therapist will create space to make you feel heard and safe!
While the process of finding the right therapist can feel overwhelming, it’s worth the effort. You got this!
-Hannah
