Embarking on the journey of therapy can be transformative, and finding the right therapist is a crucial step in the process! With a vast array of therapists, each with their unique specialties and areas of focus, the search can seem daunting. Additionally, it's essential to be cautious of those who provide mental health advice without proper qualifications.

So, how do you begin your quest to find a competent therapist who is the perfect fit for you? Here are 7 tips to guide you in finding the best therapist tailored to your needs.

1. Clarify what you want

Begin your search by reflecting on some key considerations: Which specific issues do you want to address in therapy? Examples include depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, or self-esteem, among others. Would you feel more at ease with a male or female therapist? Do you prefer traditional in-person sessions or does the convenience of telehealth appeal to you? Taking the time to answer these questions will provide a solid foundation for your search, helping you narrow down and identify the characteristics of a therapist that best aligns with your needs.

2. Ask someone you trust

Although stigma around mental health still exists, leading many to search for therapists anonymously on Google, a more personalized approach can yield better results.

Instead of relying solely on internet searches, consider reaching out to someone you trust. Friends, family, colleagues, or your local primary care physician can be valuable resources in your search.

Inquire if they have worked with a therapist they liked and would recommend. You might find that a therapist who has a history of successful connections with people in your trusted inner circle is more likely to be a good fit for you as well.

3. Check credentials

Ensuring that your therapist has the proper credentials is crucial! Are they licensed in your state of residence? Do they have the necessary training and education to provide effective support?

Fortunately, there are several ways to verify this information. One reliable method is to use Psychology Today. Their staff manually verify the license of every therapist listed on their platform with the state’s governing body, ensuring that you connect with a legitimate expert.

Another option is to check a counselor's license on your state board's website. While this may take a few minutes to locate, it's well worth the peace of mind. For example, here are the websites for California and Pennsylvania.

Alternatively, if you've already found a therapist you're interested in, don't hesitate to ask for their license number or inquire about their experience directly. Qualified, licensed therapists should be more than willing to share this information. Be cautious of any clinician who seems reluctant to do so.

It's important to note that the recent surge in mental health awareness has led to an increase in individuals posing as mental health experts. There is minimal regulation for those who label themselves as "coaches," and they may not be equipped to treat mental health diagnoses unless they are also licensed mental health professionals.

4. Consider the cost and value

Insurance can sometimes help lower the cost of therapy sessions, but there are important factors to consider:

Your specific insurance policy's quality and tier will determine your out-of-pocket expenses.
The therapist you wish to work with must be paneled with your insurance provider.
Insurance will only cover your sessions if you qualify for an official mental health diagnosis, which becomes part of your permanent medical record.

Insurance companies may offer certain therapy services as a "perk," but keep in mind that you often get what you pay for. This could mean having a therapist typing on his/her computer during the sessions or even lengthy periods of time between sessions, which may not yield the best treatment outcomes.

While free or "affordable" therapy isn't inherently lower quality, it's important to recognize that the benefits you receive from therapy are often strongly correlated with your investment in the process – both financially and emotionally.

Ultimately, therapy is a valuable investment in your mental and emotional well-being. While quality care may come with a price, the lasting and life-changing impacts of good therapy are well worth it.

5. Plan ahead of time

In today's fast-paced world, many therapists – especially the highly sought-after ones – tend to be booked several months in advance. This has become even more common since the Covid-19 pandemic, as more people are seeking help for their mental health. Be prepared to be placed on a waitlist for several weeks or even months.

If you find yourself urgently needing therapy, it might be tempting to book the first available therapist you come across. However, by doing so, you risk discovering that this therapist isn't the right fit for you, sending you back to square one. Instead, take the time to read therapist bios, review their specialties and experience, and be patient for an appointment with a therapist who aligns with your needs and values. The wait will be worth it in the end!

6. Try it out

In therapy, the relationship between you and your therapist is everything. In fact, there is research that suggests that the best outcome for a client in psychotherapy occurs when there is a comfortable, safe, and positive relationship with the therapist.

Have you found a few therapists who seem like you could get along with them? Try them out! Meet with them for a session or two and see if you feel like you can be honest with them and feel comfortable in their office. Sometimes the process looks like trial-and-error. We’re going to sound like a broken record here, but it is worth the effort of choosing to be vulnerable with a new person or two to find the right fit for you.

7. Schedule a free consultation

Many therapists these days offer a free 15-20 minute phone consultation to discuss the many factors that contribute to whether or not you’ll be a good fit together. These factors include fees, availability, areas of specialty, and good ol’ fashioned human connection.

If you’re looking for therapy in Harrisburg, PA, or the surrounding areas, and are interested in scheduling a free consultation, don't hesitate to contact us at Arrival Counseling Service. We would love the opportunity to explore whether we're the right fit for you!

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