Therapy can be intimidating and finding a therapist that works for you can add to it. Here are some things to consider.
So you've decided that you want to talk to someone but where do you start? Maybe you check with your insurance company, check search engines or even ask around, but then what? What do you even look for in a therapist?
We want to feel comfortable, be able to connect with and #trust the therapist, after all you will be sharing part of who you are. It is important to understand sometimes this process takes time and to hang in there if you don't mesh well with the first one you meet. Lets tackle a few things to consider when looking for a #therapist.
Decide what you are looking for
Knowing what you are looking for is important. Part of feeling comfortable with them is also getting to know a part of them. Similarities can help with connectivity, some look for similarities such as #religious beliefs, gender or ethnicity, while others may look for location and hours available. Having an idea is what helps gauge if you will continue going forward with the therapist or not. Some therapist are directive and some are not.
Research
It is ok to look up therapists. If using #insurance is important to you? If so you need to know if they accept insurance and the insurance that you have. If insurance is not an issue with you then knowing what their self-pay fee is necessary as it is a tough space to connect with a therapist but find out that financially you're unable to attend therapy consistently. Be familiar with what kind of therapy the therapist does and does it fit your needs. If you want #couples counseling what kind of experience do they have working with couples? If you want individual counseling for #depression be sure the work with these type of clients.
Be willing to put in the work
The therapeutic relationship is a two way street. Often therapy can bring out some tough things to deal with and being honest and committed to the process is key. That is why it is important to be comfortable with your therapist as they may #challenge you in some areas that you are uncomfortable in.
You have the right decide
Just because you seen the therapist does not mean you have to continue to see them. You have the right at any time to end the therapeutic relationship. Be sure to continue therapy with someone that you are comfortable with and whose therapy style works well with you.
We know this can be a big step and making the best decision for you is necessary. Be sure to take some time to find one that works well with and for you. Hopefully this allows you some space to think about what you are looking for in a therapist and help decrease some of the #anxiety that may come with therapy.