How do i find the right therapist?

9/17/2023

Finding a therapist that is right for you may just be the scariest part of therapy, right? Would if they are “weird?” Would if they make me do things I think are strange? Am I stuck with them forever? Here are some tips to help you find a therapist you can trust and one which helps you to grow.

Questions to Ask on Your Consultation Call:

What are your credentials?
Fee? Insurance? Schedule?
Do you have specialties/training that could help with my main complaint?
If you have specific preferences for help, please state in initial phone call such as if you have a specific faith, cultural contexts, or values you would like to be honored and ask if the therapist/counselor can adhere.

First Session: What to Be Aware Of-

Is the clinician establishing a good professional rapport (not a friendship) by:

Establishing good communication and how to communicate in-between sessions
Establishing expectations and safety (confidentiality, HIPPA, your rights as a client)
Establishing what to do in emergency situations and how to communicate/seek help during a crisis
Establishing where you are an expert on your mental health and what the clinician’s role is to help you move towards your goals

Know you have choice in who you see:

It is recommended that you see a therapist 2-3 times before deciding if a good fit for you. If it is not a good fit, it is okay to ask for referrals.
If you have feedback, please let the therapist know as if they can change anything for better relationship, they will and if cannot will give you referrals to help you on your journey to finding the right therapist.

Working together as clinician and client is the best indication of a good fit. Therapy is hard as bringing up personal, intimate thoughts and feelings.

Can you discuss uncomfortable feelings and thoughts with the therapist?

Want to get started?

Contact Kerri at the contact page for your 10 - 15 minute consultation to see if we are a right fit to work together.

Contact Kerri

0 Comments