Are you looking to hire an online couple’s counselor, but aren’t sure how to choose the right one? There are many benefits to distance counseling.
If you and your partner have a packed schedule, online counseling provides a convenient alternative to in-person counseling. Plus, many people find it easier to open up via the computer from the comfort of their home than they do in-person.
But, in order for your couple’s counseling to be successful, you need to find the right counselor.
Check out this guide to discover how to find the best distance counseling.
1. Know What You Want to Work On
Before you hire an online counselor, you should sit down with your partner and figure out the issues that you want to work on. Are you thinking about getting a divorce? Are you having financial issues? Or, maybe you’re having issues in the bedroom?
Whatever it is, having a general idea of what your issues are beforehand can help you select the right therapist. And, it can help you come into your first session more prepared.
If you aren’t having any major issues but just want to work on strengthening your relationship, that’s okay too. No matter where you and your partner are in your relationship, there’s a therapist out there who can help you.
2. Check With Your Insurance
If you pay out of pocket for your health insurance, you could end up paying upwards of $200 per session. While for some people this is relatively feasible, for most couples, this is very expensive.
This is why it’s so important to look for an online therapist who’s in your network. Online therapists operate just like traditional therapists in terms of insurance, so make sure to ask what networks they work with before you set up your first appointment.
3. Ask About Their Credentials
Before you hire an online counselor, it’s also very important to ask about their credentials. At the very least, you want to look for a counselor who has their license in marriage and family counseling.
You can also work with a therapist who has a Ph.D. in psychology or psychotherapy. Here are some other credentials to look for:
- Psychiatrist (DO, MD)
- Licensed Mental Health Worker ((LMHC)
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
- Psychologist (Psy.D)
- Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
- Limited License Professional Counselor (LLPC)
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
You should also ask the counselor about how much experience they have with online couples counseling as well as how much experience they have with dealing with issues similar to your own. And, you should ask them what type of therapy techniques they use to resolve issues within a relationship.
Distance Counseling: Are You Ready for Your First Session?
Now that you know what to look for when signing up for distance counseling, it’s time to put these tips into action. Hopefully, the right counselor will help you and your partner work through your issues.
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