- To choose a Therapist; Identify the presenting issues you would like help with, at least three
- Determine what expertise is most important for your specific issues
- Identify professionals in your area and contact them so you can ask your questions. Notice organizations & groups they are associated with to assess the professional’s credibility.
To choose a Therapist; Contact potential professionals and obtain information about their services. Questions to Consider;
- What is your experience with issues like mine? How long have you worked with these problems?
- What steps would you take in my treatment?
- Is your treatment approach short term or long term?
- What is your role as Therapist and my role as client during treatment?
- Clarify financial arrangements
Considerations as you prepare to choose a therapist;
- If it is difficult for you to list your presenting issues, imagine what in your life will be different when counseling is complete. That will help you identify what needs to change.
- Examples of types of expertise include; Chemical dependency, Eating Disorder, Depression, Relationship-focused, etc.
- Some professionals are more passive, others rather active in the therapeutic process. And philosophically therapists vary from long term to short term focus in their work. Therapy can be in office only, or through E-Therapy. What appeals to you as a client?
- Are you looking for a professional who is a good listener, or one who is more direct in their approach? Do you function best in a collaborative role or being led?
- It is important that you are comfortable following your initial contact with the potential therapist. His/her responses should give you hope that he or she is able to help you. You are not under obligation regarding your choice, there are many mental health professionals.
- https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/insight-therapy/201603/10-ways-tell-good-therapy-bad?utm_source=FacebookPost&utm_medium=FBPost&utm_campaign=FBPost
