Finding the right therapist or counselor can be challenging, but it doesn't need to be. When you are interested in counseling, you will have many providers to choose from as you look for the right fit. However, with so many alternatives available, it can be overwhelming. So, if you are looking for a counselor, therapist, or psychologist, we'd like to help you find somebody who can help.
Selecting a therapist or counselor can feel confusing and overwhelming. You may not know where to turn with so many choices and sometimes confusing language. When we want a physician, we usually ask a trusted friend who they used, but with therapy, it can be different. Sometimes you want not to have to talk to a friend about what you are feeling inside, which is understandable.
Complete this sentence: "I need assistance with . . . " Then, complete this sentence: "I want my life to look like . . . when I feel better."
How do you function best? Do you desire someone who will slow things down and provide you time to get unstuck, or are you ready for somebody to help you press on the gas and move things along?
Does it matter if you work with a female or male therapist? Does spiritual affiliation make a difference to you?
How do you want to pay for therapy? Do you need to utilize your insurance, or would you like to pay out of pocket to expand your options?
Now that you know what you need and want, let's locate a therapist.
Plan to question three therapists.
See if the counselor or therapist has a website and study the home page, about page, and any specialty pages that may interest you. You can usually learn more about the therapist by doing this. In addition, most therapists and counselors offer a free 15-minute consultation where you can ask questions and learn more about the provider.
Understand that this consultation permits you and the therapist to understand more about each other and for both of you to determine if working together is a suitable fit. Fit is one of the most critical factors in your connection with your therapist. After questioning several therapists, you will have more of a feeling of which individual felt like they could help you the most. That is what we mean by fit!
Use the responses from the questions above to ask questions and acquire information. For example, it is alright to ask the counselor to define what they mean by specific terms, how they perform best, and their philosophy about therapy and counseling.
Remember that if the therapist or counselor doesn't seem like they are a good fit, they may refer you to somebody they believe might be a better match. This is a win-win for you because somebody inside the therapy world is supporting you in identifying opportunities you may not have been aware of.
Heather Oller is the owner and founder of Orlando Thrive Therapy, Coaching, and Counseling. She is a licensed counselor and a family mediator who has over 23 years of dedicated work as a professional in the mental health field. Through her company's mission, she continues to pave the way for future therapists, and their clients, who want a higher quality of life....and who want to thrive, rather than just survive. You can contact Orlando Thrive Therapy at (407) 592-8997 for more information.