The decision to start therapy can be difficult, and the choices involved can feel overwhelming. In our previous blog posts, we discussed important aspects of starting therapy, including "What type of therapy do I need?" and "Therapist, Psychologist, and Psychiatrist—What's the difference?" These articles provided valuable insights into understanding different therapy approaches and the roles of various mental health professionals. With that information in mind, now comes the most important part: selecting the right therapist to guide you on your mental health journey.
To begin your search for the right therapist, it's crucial to assess your needs and goals for therapy. Take some time for self-reflection and consider the specific challenges or issues you want to address. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or a specific trauma? Understanding your needs will help guide you towards the appropriate therapeutic approach. Most therapists list their specialties and the different approaches they take in their profile. For a comprehensive overview of different therapy modalities, we recommend referring to our previous blog post, "What type of therapy do I need?"
No matter who you choose, it is essential that you feel fully comfortable being vulnerable with that person. It can be helpful to consider what type of person will help you feel understood and seen. If you are part of a marginalized group, you might feel most comfortable with a therapist who has lived the same experience as you. Based on your experiences, you might feel uncomfortable opening up to a therapist of a certain gender - and that’s ok! It’s very common to have specific preferences when selecting a therapist. This is why, in addition to types of therapy and age ranges served, Psychology Today allows users to filter therapists by gender, languages spoken, religions served, and ethnicities served. Medens Health employs a diverse staff so that those considering therapy in California and Nevada can find the best provider for their needs.
Beyond credentials and recommendations, it's crucial to evaluate the fit between you and a potential therapist. A strong therapeutic alliance and rapport significantly contribute to the effectiveness of therapy. Most providers offer a free consult call for this reason. Take them up on that offer. During the call, pay attention to how comfortable you feel with the therapist. Do they listen actively and show empathy? Do they create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to express yourself? Trusting your instincts is key!
While therapeutic fit is essential, practical considerations will also play a role in your decision-making process. Think about factors such as the therapist's location, availability, and fees. Some therapists may accept your insurance, while others offer sliding-scale fees, payment plans, or super bills to cover out of network costs. It's important to find a balance between the therapist's suitability and practical considerations.
Lastly, trust your instincts throughout the process. Therapy is a collaborative endeavor, and it's crucial to feel comfortable and supported by your therapist. If, after a few sessions, you feel that the therapeutic relationship isn't a good fit, don't hesitate to explore other options. Open communication and mutual trust are vital for therapeutic progress. At Medens Health, you can request a new provider at any time for any reason, and we will do our best to help you find a better fit!
Selecting the right therapist is a crucial step in your mental health journey. While finding a good fit may seem daunting, it is a highly rewarding endeavor. The right therapist can be your ally in improving your mood, motivation, fulfillment, and personal relationships for years! Therapy is a deeply personal and individual experience, and finding the right therapist for you is a worthy investment in your well-being.
If you are located in California or Nevada, Medens Health has a diverse staff of 40+ compassionate and talented providers who can provide therapy in person or virtually. We take care to match you with the therapist who is best suited to you. To get started, you’ll have a virtual meeting with our Intake Manager, where you’ll discuss your needs and goals for therapy, as well as any preferences you may have for a provider. Reach out to us by phone or text at (833) 624-5400, send us a message using our online contact form, or to register as a new patient get started here.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical or mental health. If you don’t currently have a therapist, we can connect you with one who is qualified to give you safe, professional, and ethical advice regarding your mental health.
If you or someone you are responsible for is experiencing a medical emergency, is considering harming themselves or others, or is otherwise in imminent danger, you should call 9-1-1 and/or take them to the nearest emergency room.
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