How to Find and Pick the Right Therapist for You

It’s daunting enough to realize that you’re ready for therapy. Actually figuring out how to go therapy shouldn’t be emotionally taxing, too. In an effort to help that process become a bit more digestible, here’s a guide for how to start your search for a therapist — and how to know what you’re looking for.

Dr. Melanie Badali, a registered psychologist, recommends that after a person realizes they want to go therapy, they ask a health professional they already know — such as their general practitioner or family doctor — for a recommendation.

A tricky thing about using the internet is that, many times, the search will lead to listings that require therapists to pay for the privilege of being listed. Because of this, Badali says, “you can miss some of the best therapists because they don’t need to advertise.”

It’s also very helpful to get a sense of what you want to get out of therapy and to educate yourself on what different therapy options are out there. Badali says that if a person has a specific reason for seeking therapy, she recommends finding someone who uses science-based practices for treating that particular issue.

“Find someone who knows what they are doing and helps a lot of people with similar issues to yours,” Badali explains. “You should be able to get that information before you spend money or time on a visit with someone.”

Then, she says, “you may have to go shopping for someone who is a good ‘fit,’ but at least you’ve already narrowed down your search.

During her first meeting with clients, Badali makes a point of relaying to them that in order to get positive psychotherapy outcomes, there has to be a good working relationship between a therapist and a client. It’s important that a person and their therapist can agree on therapy goals, and that the client feels comfortable giving back feedback during the course of the treatment.

Research shows therapy can teach patients life skills that last beyond the course of treatment. But you have to find a way to receive that therapy — and figure out what therapist is right for you — first.

Excerpted from “How to Find and Pick the Right Therapist for You” in Inverse. Read the full article for additional tips and recommendations.

Source: Inverse | How to Find and Pick the Right Therapist for You, https://www.inverse.com/mind-body/how-to-find-pick-the-right-therapist-for-you |INVERSE © 2020 Bustle Digital Group

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