When you’re in the trenches of needing a therapist, finding a therapist is probably the last thing you want to do. Admitting that you need help can be a difficult and overwhelming experience in and of itself and putting in the work to find the right therapist can feel daunting. It’s possible but can pose potential challenges. That’s why we’ve created this list of suggestions on how to find the best therapist for you.
First and foremost, when you’re looking for a therapist, trust your gut. Make sure to stop and listen to your inner voice. Therapy is going to be tough from time to time. The reality is, you’re going to therapy to heal deeper wounds, and reopening those wounds will be challenging every once in a while. However, there’s a massive difference between challenging work and sensing that your therapist is not the right fit for your needs. If you feel misunderstood, unsafe, or disrespected in any way, or if your therapist’s style isn’t a good match, you have the power and the right to find another therapist who can better meet your needs. The most important aspect of each session is to feel seen, heard, and respected.
In the same way that you get along with some social acquaintances better than others, you will likely connect with some therapists more than others. Some therapists take a more direct approach, while others let you lead the way while providing a nurturing presence. Many therapists offer free initial intakes, giving you the option to meet with a few different therapists and see who you feel most comfortable with before making the financial investment.
If you’re struggling to trust your inner voice or don’t know where to start, reach out and ask someone you trust who they would recommend. The person you trust can be your doctor, family member, or friend. It’s important to remember that your needs and goals with your therapist may be different than that of your trusted person - and that’s okay - at least you have a good place to start.
Another helpful approach to finding a therapist is to seek out professionals or organizations that address your specific concern. For example, if you’re looking to heal in the area of PTSD, you could call the PTSD Hotline. They would be able to guide you to a local therapist who specializes in your area of PTSD (as there’s more than one form of it.) Healing from Anxiety Disorders & Depression would call on a different specialization. Utilizing databases like Psychology Today can help with this approach by filtering through therapists in your area based on specialty. That way, you can look for someone with experience working with your specific concern or issue.
Finally, take an active approach to your work in therapy by identifying your goals and expressing your needs. What’s making you seek out therapy? Do you want to heal from childhood trauma, or military service trauma, or from a marriage that ended in divorce? Setting clear goals with your therapist will ensure greater success on your healing journey. Make sure to talk to them about how you’d like to heal through the process. If you don’t know, that’s okay. That’s why you’re seeking professional help - to guide you. Just make sure your therapist is open to hearing your needs and empowers you to use your voice as you gain more clarity.
In summary, when you’re looking for a quality therapist that fits you personally, keep the following things in mind:
Trust your gut
Find the right fit
Ask a trusted person for their recommendation
Seek out professionals that specifically deal with your concerns
Set goals for yourself
Connection and trust with your therapist is essential to the therapeutic process, and is the single greatest predictor of positive client outcomes. Remember, therapy can be a bit unnerving at times. However, if you’re with the therapist who fits you best, even the challenging times will reap great rewards.