You have decided to contact a psychologist but don’t know where to begin. You’ve searched multiple therapy directory sites and feel overwhelmed about where to start and who to contact. Here are five things to do to help you pick a therapist that is right for you.
- Start with picking 3-5 therapists that you would like to contact.
After viewing the therapist’s profile and their therapy website, schedule a free consultation since many psychologists and mental health clinicians schedule free initial consultations. Take advantage of this free service because it will give you a chance to speak with the therapist before deciding whether or not they are right for you.
2. Speak to more than one therapist, especially if you have never had a therapist in the past.
Like anything else, therapy is about relationships. Speak with a few therapists to get a feel for their personalities and how they work. Remember, your goal should be to find and work with a therapist with whom you will feel comfortable sharing sensitive information. Having a good relationship with your therapist doesn’t mean that the therapist will not challenge you; neither does it mean you won’t experience uncomfortable therapeutic moments because of the work they will have you do during sessions. Look for a therapist that you will trust and know that when painful moments arise, they will be there to guide you through those moments.
3. Find a convenient clinician for you to get to, especially if virtual therapy or concierge therapy are not options.
It’s like going to the gym; you know you need it, you know the results are great, but the reality is, you are not going to go if it’s not convenient. Let’s face it in today’s world where we are going a mile a minute, have business meetings and schedules that barely allow us time to eat and sleep; we need convenience. If getting to your therapist is out of the way, you may find it much harder to commit to the weekly sessions than if it was convenient to get to their location. Finding a therapist that offers virtual therapy, i.e., online therapy, telehealth services, or online counseling, removes the added pressure of making time in your schedule to drive to your therapists’ office. Some therapists make it even easier for you by offering a concierge service where they come to you. Either way, the right combination of connection and convenience is essential.
4. Look for a therapist who specializes in working with professional women.
Finding a therapist who counsels business and professional women struggling with career challenges, workplace issues, and significant life transitions takes a lot of the guesswork out of what the therapist does. Many therapists are generalists who do great work but keep in mind that generalists usually see every age group and treat every condition. Think of going to a therapist with a niche in the same way you think of going to your primary care physician who sends you to a specialist to care for your specific concern. Find a therapist who has expertise in addressing business and professional women’s needs.
5. Consider working with a psychologist who provides counseling strategies and therapy interventions from different therapy styles.
You may find a therapist that you like but who only uses therapy techniques from one therapy style. That particular counseling approach may not resonate with you and hinder you from making progress in treatment. It’s best to work with a therapist who will tailor the best method to minimize and alleviate your symptoms while getting you closer to your therapy goals. Remember that in the end, you are looking for a therapist because you want to reach specific goals. The therapist that you choose should help you reach your goals. Taking all of these tips into consideration should help you find the therapist that is right for you.
I am a clinical psychologist in Los Angeles and offer complimentary 15-minute initial consultations. If you are a professional woman seeking counseling, you may click here to schedule an appointment.