Finding a Therapist
- Clarify Your Needs – Think about what you want help with (e.g., anxiety, trauma, relationships) and what kind of approach resonates with you (e.g., structured like CBT, body-focused like somatic therapy, or insight-driven like psychodynamic therapy).
- Check Credentials & Specialties – Look for licensed professionals (e.g., LPC, LCSW, PsyD) and check if they specialize in what you need (e.g., trauma, ADHD, grief).
- Consider Therapy Style & Approach – Some therapists are more direct, others more exploratory. Research methods like CBT, DBT, EMDR, or somatic therapy to see what fits.
- Assess Logistics – Consider cost, insurance, availability, session format (in-person vs. online), and their cancellation policy.
- Trust Your Gut – A good therapist should make you feel safe, understood, and supported. If you don’t feel a connection after a few sessions, it’s okay to try someone else.
Questions to Ask a Potential Therapist
• Experience & Specialization:
• What is your experience working with [your concern, e.g., anxiety, trauma, ADHD]?
• Do you specialize in a particular therapy approach?
• Therapy Process & Style:
• How do you typically structure sessions?
• What does progress look like in therapy?
• How do you handle tough emotions or difficult sessions?
• Logistics & Fit:
• Do you accept my insurance or offer sliding scale rates?
• How often do you recommend sessions?
• What’s your availability for appointments?
• Personal Fit:
• What do you think makes a good therapist-client relationship?