Beginning the journey to finding a therapist can seem daunting and overwhelming. Whether this is your first time considering therapy or you are looking for a new mental health professional to work with, here are a few tips to getting started.
Determine What You Need: Before you start searching for a therapist, think about what you're looking to get out of therapy. Consider your goals, preferences (such as gender, age, or therapy style), and any specific issues you want to address.
Ask for Recommendations: Talk to your friends, family, primary care provider or psychiatrist for recommendations. They might know of therapists who have helped others with similar concerns.
Check with your Insurance or Employer: If you have health insurance, check your provider directory to see which therapists are covered by your plan. You can also call your insurance company for assistance in finding a therapist who accepts your insurance. If your workplace provides an employee assistance program, or EAP, you may receive a number of therapy sessions for free or at a low-cost. Some counseling practices may also offer sliding scale or low-income services.
Online Directories: Websites like Psychology Today offer directories where you can search for therapists based on location, insurance, specialties, and other preferences. If you have specific cultural or identity-related needs, you may want to find a therapist who has experience working with clients from similar backgrounds. Websites like Inclusive Therapists, OutCare, and Latinx Therapy offer directories to providers who are LGBTQIA+ affirming and/or work with BIPOC communities.
Reach Out and Ask Questions: Contact therapists or therapy practices you're interested in and ask them questions about availability, fees, and therapy approaches. Many therapists offer a free initial consultation to help you determine if they're a good fit.
Be Patient: Finding the right therapist can take time, so be patient with yourself and the process. Don't get discouraged if you don't find the perfect fit right away. It's important to feel comfortable and safe with your therapist. Trust your instincts—if something doesn't feel right, it's okay to keep looking for someone else.
Remember that therapy is a collaborative process, and finding the right therapist for you is an important step in your journey toward better mental health. If you are interested in taking your first step to finding a therapist at Bodhi, reach out for a free consultation today!