“Shopping” for a Therapist
When you meet a therapist for the first time, you might feel a lot of different things. You could feel excited, nervous, or completely unsure of what to expect. Finding a therapist that works well for you is the first step on your journey toward improved mental health and functioning. So, where do you even begin?
The first thing you have to do is locate a therapist you want to try working with. One way of doing this is through word of mouth. You can ask friends, family, or coworkers to see for therapy and if they recommend them. Another way is to look at the Psychology Today website. On this website, you can sort by location to find a therapist close to you. You can also see if the therapist takes your insurance and read their profile. Look for a profile that resonates with you and what you are looking for from therapy. From here, you can contact the therapist via phone or email to attempt to set up a new client appointment.
When you meet your therapist for the first time, remember you are “shopping” for a service, and if anything doesn’t feel right, you are always able to start your search over and try a different therapist. Not every therapist will click with every client, and that is okay. Come prepared with questions for your therapist. Feel free to outline your expectations and ask what their expectations are for their clients. If you don’t feel a connection with the therapist, know that this isn’t a reflection on therapy as a whole, and you have other options – don’t give up! There is a therapist out there that can help you reach your goals if you’re prepared to do the work!
If you are interested in trying out therapy for the first time, contact us at 931-805-5780
