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What's Up, Doc?: Finding The Right Therapist

29 October 2015

Lieve Boekholt

If you have decided to see a therapist, congratulations! You have made a positive step toward your future and your mental health. In fact, most people could benefit from seeing a therapist. The trouble comes when it is time to choose which one to see. Should you pull the first one you see out of the phone book? Should you read a bunch of reviews first? There are plenty of ways to find a good therapist, but first you need to determine what it is that you need.

Know what kind of therapy you need.

Talk therapy is very common, and you may find a variety of licensed psychologists, counselors, and social workers in your area. Individual, couples, and family therapy fall into this realm. If you are struggling with anxiety or struggle to maintain healthy relationships with those you love, talk therapy may be the best choice for you. Talk therapy also helps couples recover from infidelity.

If you are dealing with a problem that makes you feel isolated, like an eating disorder, grief, or addiction, group therapy may be the best choice. This type of therapy takes place with one or two professionals and a small group of individuals facing the same issues.

Outpatient treatment sometimes involves intensive programs that may feel like a full-time job. You may find yourself attending therapy several days a week, often for hours at a time. Most programs utilize both group and individual therapy, but some also ask romantic partners and families to join. Outpatient treatment is common for those with depression, anxiety, and intense phobias.

Inpatient treatment is that which occurs in a facility, not necessarily a hospital, over an extended period of time. This type of setting offers safety and security, especially for those battling addiction and abuse at home. It is also common for mental health issues such as intense depression, schizophrenia, or other mental illness that precludes one's ability to be at home.

Know How to Pay for Mental Health Care

Before you talk to a therapist, you should first check with your health insurance provider to learn about your mental health coverage. Your place of employment may also offer several sessions for free through an Employee Assistance Program. If you don't have good mental health insurance, your provider may offer a sliding scale for payments. This means that the amount you pay is based on how much money you make.

Remember that your first visit with the therapist is essentially an audition. It may be uncomfortable at first. The client-therapist relationship is truly unique, and you need to make sure that your personalities really mesh. You are never stuck; you can choose another therapist anytime you feel the need to. If you're looking for a psychologist in your area, visit Timothy D. Berry, Ph.D.

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