Finding a therapist specializing in your areas of concern can be a tedious challenge, but it’s essential to find the best fit for your needs without becoming overwhelmed and giving up. Here are a few strategies to help you find the best therapist for you.
Defining what you want to gain from therapy can help you narrow your search. When you know what type of therapy you’re looking for, you can search for therapists who specialize in these areas.
Generalized therapists are often not as helpful as specialists, but they can usually refer someone more equipped to help you work through whatever you’re struggling with. If you don’t know precisely what you want to work on in therapy, that’s OK. Your therapist can work with you to better understand areas you might want to work on.
Beginning your search could pose challenges depending on your location. Luckily, Austin provides a wealth of therapists, ranging from cognitive behavioral therapy to marriage and family counseling. There are many ways to search for therapists that best suit your needs. For instance, ensure you’re using a reliable database for online searches.
There are also online platforms that provide treatment via video chat that you can access from anywhere. However, in-person therapy is likely more effective since it holds you accountable by having to maintain appointments and physically show up for them.
Networking is an effective method for finding someone to trust. By asking people whom you know and trust if they’ve heard of or used therapists in your area, you might feel more comfortable with your therapist of choice. Plus, some local therapists might not have a significant online presence that you can find from databases.
Professional networks also often have insight into areas of expertise that they can recommend. Lawyers, teachers and preachers can be great resources for networking, especially in small communities.
Introductions are essential in finding the right therapist. You don’t want to start paying someone to help you if you haven’t yet met them. You’ll want to set up opportunities to sort of interview potential therapists to discover who you connect with the best. Someone might have the best credentials and reputation, but you might not vibe with them the same way someone else would.
Give every therapist you’re considering the chance to win your vote. When you meet someone, you can gauge their personality and see if it meshes well with your own. Introductions may seem tedious, but it’s well worth the effort to ensure you have a good rapport with the person you’ll allow into your emotional trauma.
Asking the right questions can ensure you get what you want from your therapist. Ask about their credentials, experience and approach to their patients. By asking the right questions, you can feel much better about the money you’re spending, knowing you’ll be able to trust and confide in your therapist.
Don’t be intimidated by the idea that you’re asking too many questions — ask them until you’re content with the answers. You want to ensure you feel open and comfortable with your chosen therapist. It can be a difficult choice to make, and therapists aren’t cheap.
Check with your insurance company and see if they work with the providers you’re considering. If they don’t cover the expenses of a therapist you want to work with, talk with the therapist about payment options.
Insurance companies often have lists of therapists and services they cover, but the list can be broad and long. It’s best to narrow your search before diving into these lists. Knowing whether your insurance covers therapy can help you decide who to choose.
Finding the Best Therapist
Weighing your options can be challenging, but introductions, recommendations from trusted resources and answers to your questions can help you make a final decision. Remember, finding the therapist that’s right for you takes patience and understanding, so give yourself some grace, too.
About the Author
Kara Reynolds is the founder and editor-in-chief of Momish Magazine, an inclusive parenting magazine filled with parenting hacks, advice and more to keep your beautiful family thriving.