How to find the right therapist

Finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. How do you know you will be able to talk with them or if they can help you? Here are some suggestions for how to find a good therapist for you.

Ask friends or family for a referral (if you are comfortable doing so).

Look online for therapists in your area and go to their websites. There many online directories, a few include www.psychologytoday.com, www.networktherapy.com, and www.apahelpcenter.com.

Make a list of a few therapists that seem to be good fits for you.

Factors that you may consider include:

• Whether they will bill your insurance company
• Can you afford their fees
• Where is the office located
• The therapist's age and gender
• What kinds of problems they usually treat
• Is the therapists licensed

Finally, call a few therapists and talk with them on the phone. If you feel comfortable with them over the phone, ask for a 30-minute consultation interview. Some therapists offer 30-minute consultation interviews for free. If you get their voicemail, be sure to leave a message; many therapists do not have receptionists, but will return your call.

When you speak with a therapist for the first time...

• give them a brief idea of what problem(s) you want to address in therapy
• ask if they have experience treating your problem(s)
• ask what their approach to treating you would be

Once you find a therapist, you'll be glad you made the effort.