Keep this in mind while searching.
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How can I search for a new therapist? |
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First, give yourself credit for being committed to improving your mental health! Therapy can be such a valuable resource for restoring relationships, recovering from trauma, adjusting to new life phases, working toward your goals, and supporting your overall well-being.
The process of picking a mental health professional can be overwhelming, so here are some tips to keep in mind during your search:
💭 Think about your goals ahead of time: Why do you need help? Having an idea of what you’d like to work on can help you figure out the best type of therapy and therapist. For example, a psychiatrist can prescribe medication while a therapist can’t, and not all professionals are informed about autism or specialized in treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
💸 Understand your insurance and budget: It’s important to know how much you can spend on each session. Some therapists don’t accept insurance, while others offer sliding-scale or free services. Online therapy services, such as Talkspace or BetterHelp, may be more affordable depending on your needs.
💚 Ask people you trust: A referral from a friend, colleague, or doctor can be a great way to find a therapist who might be a good fit. Keep in mind that just because someone is great for them doesn’t mean they’ll work well for you.
🏡 Explore local resources: Examples include university counseling centers for students, workplace wellness programs for employees, group therapists through local advocacy organizations, and faith-based treatments through a worship center. If you can’t afford traditional therapy, you may be able to take advantage of these options for free or at a discounted rate.
💻 Use a reliable online database: Healthline’s Find Care, Healthgrades, and Optum Now all offer easy ways to search for a mental health professional. Enter your zip code and filter by specialism to find a mental health professional who meets your needs. Be sure to read reviews thoroughly to make sure they align with what you’re looking for.
👀 Pay attention to how you feel: Once you find someone, ask them questions about the topics that matter most to you. This will help you see whether you align as well as their online profile suggests. Make sure you feel comfortable being fully open and honest with them, and be mindful of your feelings after each appointment. Do you feel seen, supported, and validated? Don’t forget to pay attention to red flags.
🌟 Don’t give up: Research suggests that the bond between you and the therapist you choose to work with will likely have a big effect on your growth. Finding the right person might take time and effort, so don't get discouraged. Hold out hope, and keep searching until you find someone who’s worth the wait! |
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| If you’d like to request a specific topic, offer feedback, or chime in with your answers to our weekly questions, feel free to email us at newsletters@healthline.com. We look forward to connecting with you and supporting you on the path to mental well-being. |
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