Finding a Therapist

review online, ask people.....and never feel bad if you go to one the first time and it is not a good fit....try again. Do NOT settle for someone. They know that you will be trying them out and may not go back.

Ya don't unless you are lucky enough to have a friend who has a therapist on the list.

When my older kid's psychiatrist moved out of state it took five tries on that list before I could find one I didn't want to slap.

Hi suzy-

Many therapists (reputable ones anyway) will allow a phone interview.

I would call each one on your 'insurance' list...and have some straight forward questions to ask about their area of expertise...how long in practice...a rough idea of 'length of time' for therapy given your particular concerns/issues.

I would also recommend asking folks...(friends...teachers...co workers) if THEY have a recommendation with respect to a therapist...and if you find a 'good' fit...fight with insurance to cover it...

You did not mention your particular area of concern...so I cannot be of more help regarding specific questions to ask...

I applaud you taking this first step...and seeking help.

Best Luck!
michele/cat

Hi Suzy- hope I'm not repeating too much. Do pick a few from the list and call them. They should allow a quick (and free) phone consult. If they don't, move on.

Once you have them on the phone, they may ask you about your chief complaint to get an idea of what's going on. And they are used to speaking with potential clients on the phone, so they may explain themselves enough without you asking. But if they don't, or you have more questions- ask. And at some point, ask them about their approach with clients. Some therapists are more about letting you do all of the talking and are very quiet and just reflect. Some are much more involved and ask a lot of questions and challenge things you say. Some focus a lot on the past, some on the present. These are things they will explain to you.

As you are speaking with them, you'll get an idea if you are 'clicking' with them or not, and if their approach jives with what you like. I can almost promise you that you'll have a good feeling about who you like based on this call. Again, most will have an explanation of themselves without you asking. This is great. But just make sure you understand their approach (if they don't offer it).

Good luck.

You can research them on the internet, you can almost always find out what their areas of expertise are. Decide if you'd rather have a male or female, what age bracket you might be most comfortable talking to, do you want a religious counselor or a secular therapist... so many things to consider. For me it has always been a trial & error type thing. I have had some really good ones and some real wackos. You usually know within the first session if it's going to work out or not.

If you have a primary care doctor that you like, ask him/her for referrals. Often, you'll find that doctors will surround themselves with other professionals that complement their style of care, so if you like and are comfortable with your primary that would be a good starting point.

If not, you may need to try a few out before you find one that "fits." Not all therapists conduct their sessions in the same way or style, and they are not one size fits all. If you don't like the way a session goes, or aren't comfortable, then try someone else. As long as your insurance doesn't require you to pick just one.

Research online, make get-to-know-you calls, then meet in person. You will most likely be able to tell after a visit or two whether you click with the therapist and whether he/she "speaks your language." It sucks to have to re-tell your story several times in your effort to find the right person, but it can be so worth it in the end.

I had therapists that I could dance circles around, but I eventually ended up with one that helped me change my life! So worth the effort!!

Good for you starting down this path. Don't give up!!

Many therapists have their own Web sites where you can get a feel for their areas of expertise, years of experience, etc. That might help narrow down your search, as will your preference of gender, if that's an issue.

I do agree that word-of-mouth is king.

Either way, good luck and go with your gut!

Definitely try looking them(the ones give via insurance)up online for reviews, also check with your current doctor for recommendations. The sad part is you never know if they're going to be a good fit until you try. I wish you the best of luck as I know finding one you can work with and you like is not easy.

Look for a Christian based counselor.

In my experience ask a doctor you trust. I found mine via my PCP. Doctors meet other at conferences and meetings and things of that nature and if any doctor knows you or has a feel for who you are they might very well know a psych or therapist that would "jive" with you.

Other than that you can call around and make a meet and greet appt with promising ones. Keep in mind most insurance companies only allow you a certain amount of appts in this realm so you can use them up pretty quick doing meet n greets.

The other thing I'd suggest is looking online for their specialties. Some specialize in certain mental conditions while others might handle personality disorders and others just plain old marital problems and such. That can help you narrow them down somewhat.

Anyways finding a therapist you trust and feel comfortable with can be a long road. I wish you good luck and hope you have success fast. I've been in your shoes before and it's daunting I know at best. But I've always found one even if it's taken me a few times.