Did you know that 1 in 6 people in this country entered therapy for the first time last year? This time period was stressful enough for new clients to seek help from professionals. And an even higher percentage of patients returned to therapy as well.
Have you been thinking about trying therapy? If you’re a counseling newbie, you may be wondering how to choose a therapist. Check out this handy therapist guide first to learn about the basics here.
What Is a Therapist?
First things first–if you were wondering what is a therapist, there is no simple answer. This term covers a wide variety of professionals that provide treatment. It is typically applied to psychologists, but also includes social workers, counselors, life coaches, and other rehabilitative specialists.
Things To Consider
Therapy is not a one-size-fits-all kind of deal. It’s very personal and must be tailored to your needs and comfort level. So when looking for a therapist, consider their specialty, cost, personality, and methods to make sure you find one that has the potential to offer successful treatment for you.
Get Recommendations From Friends
One of the first things to try when starting your search for a therapist is to talk to your close friends and get recommendations. See who they have had success with before. Getting a referral from a trusted buddy could give you a more personal match.
Talk With Your Doctor
It’s also a good idea to talk with your doctor to see if they have any suggestions. They may know of therapists that have a specialization in different mental health conditions or areas of trauma. Then you can discuss what direction of treatment you should look for, and what type of therapist that you need.
Ask Your Insurance Company
When choosing a therapist, you might want to contact your insurance company before you make an appointment. Find out what is covered under your plan, and see if there are any therapists in your area that fall under that.
Choose a Therapist Online
Now it’s possible to make a virtual appointment and see a therapist online. This is perfect for people who are reluctant to go to an office or don’t have a therapist that is local. Or you can go to sites like therapistfinder at collectivecounselingsolutions.com to find the right counseling service for you in your area.
Ready To Find a Therapist?
Now that you’ve learned how to choose a therapist you can be proactive and pick one that is a good match. Before you make an appointment, talk to trusted friends and family members and get recommendations if you can. Then you can explore your options both online and in-person in order to find a good fit for your budget and your needs.
Did you find this article helpful? Want to learn other useful tips? Check out the health section on this site for similar topics!