The post How to Find the Right Therapist: Your Step by Step Guide appeared first on Talkspace.
]]>Updated 12/11/2023
A good therapist is essential to getting a proper diagnosis, finding an effective treatment plan, learning to live well with the symptoms of a mental health condition, and improving your quality of life overall. If you or a family member are searching for a potential therapist, first and foremost, know this: It’s not unusual to need to visit multiple therapists before you find one that you feel is a good fit for you.
That said, there’s a process you can follow to ensure you seek out the right therapist or mental health professional to work with as soon as possible. We understand that figuring out how to find the right therapist can be a daunting experience. That’s why we put together this guide, to teach you how to get a therapist who can treat you and your specific needs.
Learn everything you need to know about finding a therapist here.
1. Utilize an Online Therapy Provider
Online therapy providers can be a great resource for those who live in small, rural communities without a lot of access to good therapists or mental health services. It’s also an excellent option for people who don’t drive, have mobility issues, juggle demanding schedules, or are looking for more affordable options for therapy — online therapy can potentially be more affordable than your local in-person treatment options.
So how does online therapy work ? Online therapy works similarly to in-person therapy, except each therapy session with your therapist is via a digital platform. When you’re looking for online therapy providers, be sure to search for therapists who accept your type of health insurance or insurance provider and specialize in the type of therapy you need.
2. Search Locally
If time is a concern, finding good therapists locally can remove the headache of having to tack on extra hours to get to and from appointments. Seeing a licensed therapist near you means you can get the appointments you need in less time, which can be a win-win if you’ve got a hectic schedule and are already feeling stressed about adding one more thing to your plate. However, depending on where you live, therapy session options may be more limited.
3. Seek Reputable Reviews or Ask a Friend
When looking for how to find a therapist, don’t discount reviews (but be sure they’re from reputable sources). Recommendations from friends and family members can be a good way to go, too. When you’re asking people you already trust, you can be confident in the insight they share about a therapist’s style and approach to counseling.
4. Use the Resources You Have
Students might find mental health services in their university’s counseling center. Those in the working world may be able to find help via their company’s human resource department. If you’re looking for a faith-based counselor or family therapy, your place of worship or their governing offices may offer suggestions.
“In the search for the right therapist, it’s important to consider reputation. Remember that finding the right fit is important. Asking friends and family who are in therapy for recommendations can be the start of finding a therapist. It’s important to ascertain if reviews of the therapist exist and if they’re honest and insightful. Not all therapists have a strong online presence and may rely on word of mouth.”
5. Make Sure They’re Properly Licensed
One of the most important issues to consider when learning how to find a therapist is making sure that any therapist you’re considering is properly licensed. This means they have the education and skills necessary to perform their job. Many therapists will display their licenses or accreditation from the American Psychological Association on the wall of their offices.
If not, you can ask them for this information or search online. You can use one of the several license lookup tools, such as the American Psychological Association’s therapist search tool or the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards lookup tool.
6. Consider Why You Need Therapy
Just like medical doctors, mental health professionals often concentrate on one or more specialties. They can be expertly trained to treat specific conditions or skilled in certain therapeutic modalities or types of therapy. They may be a family therapist, a marriage counselor, a therapist who specializes in group therapy, or someone who focuses on treating one or more mental health conditions.
Once you have answered yes to the question, do I need therapy, it’s time to begin your journey on how to find a good therapist. The first step is to ask yourself some questions about what you’re looking for and need from a therapist. Some things to consider include:
a. What do you want to get out of therapy? In your search for how to find a therapist, it’s important to honestly assess your needs. Having identified goals is key in making sure you get the most out of therapy.
- Are you looking for insight into your behaviors?
- Are you hoping to improve your relationships?
- Do you need help dealing with grief?
- Are you seeking to learn how to manage the symptoms of a mental health condition?
b. How much time and other resources are you willing to commit to therapy? Another important aspect to consider when deciding on a licensed therapist is how much effort, time, and money you’re willing to invest. How often can you meet with a therapist? Are you willing to do “homework” if they assign it? How much are you willing to spend on a therapist?
Of course, there are some practical considerations you’ll want to include on your how-to-find a therapist journey. Think about things like:
- Are the therapist’s office hours convenient to your schedule?
- Where is the therapist located?
- Do they take your insurance?
- Do they offer a sliding scale fee?
If you are concerned with therapy costs, there are other options to consider as well.
“Before searching for a therapist to work with you, think about or list out what you want to work on during your time in therapy. By figuring that out, you can narrow your search for a therapist with that particular expertise. Just because a friend/family member benefits from one family therapist doesn’t mean that therapist will be the right fit for you.”
7. Search for a Therapist with Specializations
Looking for someone with the right specialization can be another key part of knowing how to find the right therapist. Most therapists focus their energies on a single aspect of counseling, like grief, child or family therapy, or treatment of a specific condition. Therapists can be skilled in specific types of therapy, including behavioral therapy for modifying detrimental behaviors, psychodynamic therapy to explore emotional patterns, and commitment therapy to facilitate personal acceptance and committed action. As a result, Iit can be helpful to narrow your search by looking for someone whose concentration matches your needs.
8. Ask the Right Questions Before the First Appointment
Try not to stress too much before your first appointment. Your therapist will likely ask you some general life history questions, health history, and what issues you’re struggling with. Some questions you might want to ask during your first appointment with a mental health professional include:
1. How many years have you been practicing?
2. Are you licensed in this state?
3. Do you have a specialty or area of expertise?
4. Do you accept health insurance?
5. Do I need to pay you upfront, or will you bill my insurance company or insurance provider?
6. What is your general philosophy and approach toward healing?
“Take your time in asking a potential therapist the questions you feel are important to you. Most therapists offer some level of consultation to be sure the client and therapist can work together. Don’t rely on the therapist to ask all the questions — have questions ready about the things that are important to you, like what their comfort level in a particular issue is, or what their experience is in working with a specific diagnosis. This is just as much an interview for you as it is for them.”
9. Don’t Settle for Any Therapist
There’s nothing wrong with telling a therapist that you don’t think the two of you are a good fit. In fact, your long-term prognosis will be vastly improved if you find a different therapist who you can form a bond with. In the end, working with someone you don’t connect with isn’t in your best interest.
The bottom line is you should never settle for just any therapist. Keep looking until you find someone who feels right, even if that means going through multiple therapists. When you’re able to confide in them and share all your feelings and personal thoughts, you’ll reap the full benefits of therapy and experience substantially enhanced healing. Therapy can be a lot of deep, difficult work, but it’s worth it, and so are you, so be sure that taking the time to find the right person is part of your process.
Find the Right Fit with Talkspace
Talkspace online therapy offers a new take on getting the mental health help you’re looking for. By eliminating some of the common stressors associated with therapy — getting to and from appointments, dealing with traffic, paying for an extra expense, needing more time to have your appointments — we’re making the process of healing easier, more convenient, and more affordable.
Learn how Talkspace can help you figure out how to find a therapist who can change your life.
Sources:
1. APA Psychologist Locator. Locator.apa.org. https://locator.apa.org/. Accessed June 7, 2022.
2. Verify a License. Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB). https://www.asppb.net/page/LicenseLookup. Accessed June 7, 2022.
The post How to Find the Right Therapist: Your Step by Step Guide appeared first on Talkspace.
]]>The post <strong>How to Start Therapy: Your Helpful Guide</strong> appeared first on Talkspace.
]]>Updated 8/29/24
Starting therapy might be the best thing you can do for yourself. That doesn’t mean the counseling process is always easy in the beginning. If you’ve never done it before, knowing how to start therapy can feel overwhelming. Still, the end result can be so rewarding and life-changing that most people agree therapy is worth it.
Research done by the American Psychological Association (APA) shows that not only is psychotherapy, known as talk therapy, effective, but it might offer long-term health benefits and reduce the need for other mental health services in the long run.
This guide will help you with every step of the process in starting therapy. From finding the right therapist to understanding which type of therapy might work best for you, to preparing and committing to the process…we’ve got it all here for you. Keep reading to learn more about how you can get started with in-person or online therapy.
Let Your Guard Down & Don’t Let Stigmas Get In the Way
One of the biggest hindrances to knowing how to start therapy can often be letting go of the perception you have of therapy in the first place. Our society often makes it seem like asking for help with mental health issues is a bad thing. The reality though is that taking the plunge and deciding that you’re ready to start living your best life, and then actually doing the work, is one of the best things you can do. In fact, mental health treatment can be a huge act of self-care.
Let’s walk through the steps of how to start your journey to use therapy to improve your mental, emotional, and psychological health.
Understand Therapy Costs and Insurance Options
Before starting therapy, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the costs involved and how they align with your financial situation. Therapy costs can vary widely depending on the therapist’s qualifications, location, and the type of therapy you choose. Many therapists offer a sliding scale fee based on income, which can make therapy more accessible. Additionally, check to see if your insurance covers therapy and whether your chosen therapist is in-network. Some online therapy platforms may offer more affordable options and flexibility with payment plans. Understanding these financial aspects upfront can help you plan and avoid unexpected expenses, ensuring that you can maintain consistent therapy sessions over time.
Consider the Type of Therapy You Need
Not all therapy is equal. It’s important to understand some of the major types of therapy techniques. This way, you can determine which one might be best for your goals and needs. Deciding what you want to get out of your therapy journey up front can help you focus and work towards healing.
“Honing in on what you are hoping to achieve in therapy will allow you to narrow your search for a therapist. Consider all aspects of the therapy, including your background (i.e. cultural influences, family histories, etc.). Keep in mind what type of therapist may feel more comfortable for you. Perhaps it’s a specific gender, cultural background, or area of expertise.”
Types of therapy:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): A type of psychotherapy that looks at how the way you think and feel affects your behavior. By changing your thought patterns through cognitive behavioral therapy, you can change your responses to specific, often difficult, situations.
- Behavior therapy: While it can be used in a variety of therapeutic settings, behavior therapy is often beneficial for parents and children. It’s a way to highlight behaviors that are desirable while discouraging unwanted ones.
- Psychoanalytic psychotherapy: The talk therapy known as psychoanalytic psychotherapy is used to reveal unconscious feelings and thoughts in your psyche. It’s based on Freud‘s theories of psychoanalysis. By exploring your unconscious mind and looking at how it influences your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, you can become aware of the unconscious material and begin to enhance how your ego functions. The ultimate goal of psychoanalytic psychotherapy is to help you resist the demands of the superego and become less controlled by biological urges that can hinder you and your mental health.
- Psychodynamic Therapy: This form of talking therapy aims to help individuals understand their emotions and mental process at a deeper level. The therapy helps individuals become more self aware and recognize patterns they develop overtime.
- Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT): Interpersonal psychotherapy is an attachment-focused therapy technique that helps you solve interpersonal problems, reduce stress, and improve social functioning. It’s a highly structured approach with a very strict timeline that should be completed within 3 to 4 months. This evidence-based technique is often used to treat mood disorders.
- Systemic therapy: Systemic therapy is a form of group therapy that can help you on an individual level and in relationships. It focuses on interactions and relationships in groups, so problems can be solved and relationships can move forward. By reducing stress and conflict, the interactions between family members can be greatly enhanced.
- Imago relationship therapy: Imago relationship therapy focuses on conflict in relationships. It takes the approach that any conflict you experience in your relationships as an adult stems from childhood circumstances that shaped how you respond to challenges and difficulties. It can be a very effective form of couples therapy for those wanting to better their relationship, improve communication skills, rebuild trust, or enhance intimacy, among other things.
- Somatic Therapy: this type of therapy incorporates the mind, body, soul, and one’s emotions. It focuses mainly on the connection between the mind and body to help those who have suffered from trauma and abuse.
- Mentalization Therapy: this type of psychodynamic therapy focuses on how one’s behavior is linked to one’s thoughts, wishes, desires, and feelings.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Dialectical Behavior Therapy is a form of therapy aimed to help individuals find their way of living in the moment, improve relationships, and regulate their stress and emotions. The therapy is often divided in four key areas; Emotion regulation, mindfulness, distress tolerance, and assertiveness.
- Emotion Focused Therapy: this form of psychotherapy focuses on the link between emotions and identity and how it affects decision making. It helps individuals improve bonding and attachment in relationships.
- Humanistic Therapy:humanistic therapy focuses on personal understandings of the individual as a person. Its emphasis is to help an individual be their true selves and lead to a fulfilling life by understanding one’s worldview and self..
- Exposure Therapy: Exposure therapy is a form of behavioral therapy that helps individuals confront their anxieties and fears. Individuals are exposed to the situation that causes them fear and anxiety multiple times. After controlled exposure over time, feelings and stress are reduced in an individual.
- Unlimited Messaging: This virtual therapy form allows an individual to text, video, or voice their therapist at any time, from anywhere.
Search For a Therapist
One of the most important parts of the entire therapy process is going to be knowing how to find the right therapist for mental health services. The role of a therapist is unique. They need to be someone you can trust, are comfortable opening up to, and who you respect. You also need to feel confident in their ability to help you. So, what kind of therapist do you need?
Make sure that as you look for a potential therapist, you ask about specialties, qualifications, and experience. This can be particularly important if you’re hoping to reach a specific goal for your mental health condition. For example, if you’re grieving, find a qualified therapist with extensive counseling experience in the stages of grief and overcoming trauma or loss. This will be hugely beneficial in terms of how much growth and progress you make in therapy. This is the same for finding mental health professionals who specialize in therapy for anxiety, depression, or any other specific mental health condition.
Tips for finding the right therapist:
- Get a recommendation from a friend, family member, or loved one you trust
- Look online and read biographies or other client review
- Ask your family doctor or primary care provider
- Check your health insurance’s website for a list of in-network therapists you can choose from
Look for a Good Fit
Finding a potential therapist who fits your personality and who you can be comfortable with is important. Even if the first person you find ends up not working out, don’t give up the fight. It’s OK to look for a different therapist. The last thing you need is to get stuck with a bad therapist. The important thing is that you stick with your commitment to getting the individual therapy you need.
“There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to therapists. It’s important to find the right therapist for you. It’s vital to feeling secure and building a trusting, working relationship. The journey of therapy can be challenging. The therapist will be your anchor and your guide. It starts here — so feeling comfortable is the best way to build a strong foundation.”
Prepare Yourself for Therapy
There isn’t much you need to do to prepare for your first therapy session. A good therapist will guide you every step of the way.
You’ll likely have to fill out some basic paperwork with your personal information and your insurance details. You may be asked to complete a brief questionnaire or write a short explanation about why you’re seeking therapy.
Beyond that, there really won’t be much a therapist asks you to do before your initial session together. One thing you can work on before you actually go into the first session is attempt to create an elevator pitch of your reasons for seeking therapy. Try to come up with a succinct, clear, simple explanation that expresses your ultimate goals.
Have an idea of what to expect
Your first therapy session will primarily consist of you giving background information to the therapist. You’ll go over why you want therapy and what your goals are. The therapist will explain their philosophy, their process, and other expectations they have for your work together. They’ll probably handle some housekeeping items like their payment process and what their cancellation policy is.
“It’s okay to be nervous about the first meeting. Just remember that therapists are here to help the client. Focus on what you need and ask questions along the way. Therapists expect to orient you but also expect you to have a lot of questions along the way.”
The great thing about virtual therapy is that it can eliminate some of the awkwardness you might feel at a first in-person therapy session.
Decide how often you plan to meet
Often, therapy sessions are once a week for an hour at a time. But depending on the severity of your needs, your budget, the style of therapy you go with, and what the therapist suggests, you may agree to work together more often or decide to space appointments further out. For example, you might discover that bi-weekly or weekly sessions work best for you.
Consider your availability
When beginning therapy, it’s crucial to consider your availability and how it aligns your overall healing process. Balancing the commitments of family, work, and personal life with therapy sessions is essential for maintaining consistency and getting the most out of your therapy journey. Before scheduling your initial session, take a moment to realistically assess when you can be fully present for therapy. This might involve arranging childcare, adjusting work hours, or even communicating with family members about your needs during this time. Understanding your availability not only helps in setting a practical schedule with your therapist but also ensures that you are not overextending yourself. A good therapist will appreciate your need to integrate therapy into your life without causing additional stress.
Commit to the Process
For therapy to be successful, you need to be as open and dedicated as possible to the process. The more you put into it, the more benefits of therapy you’ll experience. There can, and likely will be, tough times along the way, but the reward is well worth everything you put into your healing process.
Be open and vulnerable
Make sure that you come to your therapy sessions as open and vulnerable as your comfort level will allow. It’s natural to feel like you’re stepping way outside your comfort zone, but part of becoming mentally and emotionally healthy is working through things that you’ve probably pushed down or been afraid or unwilling to face for quite some time. The more vulnerable you can be, the more quickly you’ll see results and feel the changes therapy can offer.
Don’t expect your therapist to have all of the answers
Therapists are educated and skilled in their profession, and the good ones can seem like they are miracle workers, but remember that they’re human. They won’t be able to give you all the answers, and truthfully that’s not something that would benefit you anyway.
Think of your therapist as a guide. They’ll walk with you throughout the process and help you make better choices and healthier decisions. At the end of the proverbial day, your therapy is yours. You make the choices. You make the decisions. You are the one who’ll grow — and it will be worth it.
Don’t rush the process
Some therapy techniques are intended to be short-term processes. That said, you can’t rush through the process. If you’re hoping to get the most effective results, it’s wise to let the process work for you, in the time that it should naturally take.
If you’re even thinking about how to start therapy, you’ve already taken a huge step. Take pride in the fact that you’re willing to look for mental health care when you need it. You are a strong person, and you deserve it. If you’re ready to get started, connect with a qualified therapist at Talkspace for effective and affordable online therapy with or without insurance.
Sources:
1. Research shows psychotherapy is effective but underutilized. https://www.apa.org. https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2012/08/psychotherapy-effective. Published 2012. Accessed November 8, 2021.2.
2. Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy | APsaA. Apsa.org. https://apsa.org/content/psychoanalytic-psychotherapy. Accessed November 9, 2021.
The post <strong>How to Start Therapy: Your Helpful Guide</strong> appeared first on Talkspace.
]]>The post How to Find an LGBTQIA+ Friendly Therapist appeared first on Talkspace.
]]>When it comes to therapy, no therapist is one size fits all, but this is especially the case when you’re talking about LGBTQIA+ mental health. Being a part of the LGBTQIA+ community brings a unique set of challenges, and the best way to address this is by seeking out LGBTQIA+ friendly therapy.
It’s natural for members of the LGBTQIA+ community to be cautious of therapy. After all, some people have historically been subjected to conversion therapy in the guise of improving their mental health. Fortunately, these days it’s easier to find an affirming therapist.
Read on to learn more about LGBTQIA+ therapy.
What is LGBTQIA+ Friendly Therapy?
While a cisgender, heterosexual therapist who typically works with heterosexual clients may be the perfect fit for a cisgender heterosexual man, they might not be a great match for someone in the LGBTQIA+ community. That’s why it’s crucial for LGBTQIA+ people to find a LGBTQIA+ friendly therapist.
LGBTQIA+ folks face a slew of struggles that some therapists might not understand like discrimination, coming out, dysphoria, and more. So, it can be a game-changer for someone in the LGBTQIA+ community to find a therapist who is a part of the community themselves, or at least works extensively with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Affirming therapy is one of the key aspects of LGBTQIA+ friendly therapy. Basically, affirming therapy is when a therapist affirms or validates a client’s LGBTQIA+ identity, empowering them to embrace their gender identity and sexual orientation rather than trying to fight or change it. This is helpful whether you’re out and proud or if you’re newly questioning your sexual or gender identity.
Additionally, LGBTQIA+ friendly therapy means the therapist should have no judgment or bias against the LGBTQIA+ community, and they should be well-informed about common issues faced by folks in the community. And depending on the circumstance, mental health professionals can also offer therapy group sessions with other LGBTQIA+ clients or conduct family therapy with the parents and siblings.
The Importance of Therapy for the LGBTQIA+ Community
There’s a link between sexual orientation, gender identity, and mental wellbeing. The statistics surrounding LGBTQIA+ mental health are sobering. Adults in the LGBTQIA+ community are at least twice as likely to have a mental health condition than heterosexual adults, and transgender adults are about four times as likely to have a mental health condition than cisgender people. Even more alarming, a survey amongst transgender people found that a whopping 40% of the respondents had attempted suicide before.
The numbers make it clear: The LGBTQIA+ community needs proper mental health care to address these problems. Not only do they need therapy, they need LGBTQIA+ friendly therapy for the most effective comprehensive care. Every member of the LGBTQIA+ community seeking therapy deserves an LGBTQIA+ friendly therapist who really gets them and the unique stressors they face.
The Process of Finding an LGBTQIA+ Friendly Therapist
Luckily, the internet makes finding an LGBTQIA+ friendly therapist simple. You have a few options for finding a provider who offers LGBTQIA+ friendly therapy:
- Google searches: A simple search for “LGBTQIA+ friendly therapist” or “affirming therapy” plus your location will help you find the sites of various therapists who might be a fit for you.
- Ask your local LGBTQIA+ center: Your local LGBTQIA+ center is a hub of helpful resources, and it’s likely they have some recommendations for great LGBTQIA+ friendly therapy providers. Not sure where the nearest LGBTQIA+ center is to you? Use this location finder.
- Use online databases: Databases such as PsychologyToday.com allow you to filter based on insurance, location, specialties, and even the sexual orientation of the provider. This is super helpful if you want a therapist who is LGBTQIA+ themselves.
Here are some qualifications to look out for once you come across the sites or profiles of therapists.
Be sure to choose a licensed therapist: When searching for the right fit for LGBTQIA+ counseling, you want to make sure you select a qualified licensed therapist or psychologist.
Keep in mind that therapists are licensed within their state, so it’s important you look for therapists in the same state as you so they can legally treat you.
Look for client specializations that fit your needs: When searching for an LGBTQIA+ friendly therapist, make sure you check their profile or website to see if they mention specializing in LGBTQIA+ friendly therapy and affirming therapy. If a therapist is an LGBTQIA+ friendly therapist, it’s very likely they’ll publicize this.
Find a therapist who’s part of the LGBTQIA+ community: While it isn’t necessary for an LGBTQIA+ person to have an LGBTQIA+ therapist, some prefer it. There are definitely perks that come along with this. An LGBTQIA+ friendly therapist who’s part of the community themselves will have firsthand experience dealing with something similar to what you’re dealing with. You won’t have to put in the emotional labor to educate them about the issues you face – they’ll understand from their own experience. Additionally, you might find that you’re simply more comfortable opening up about LGBTQIA+ issues to someone who is LGBTQIA+ themselves. Ultimately, the choice is yours.
Initial call: Most therapists will offer a free phone consultation before you decide to work with them. This opportunity is a great chance to get a better feel for the therapist’s personality and their approach to therapy. Use the initial call as your time to ask questions and make sure they’re an LGBTQIA+ friendly therapist. You may want to ask:
- Do you specialize in LGBTQIA+ friendly therapy?
- Do you specialize in affirming therapy?
- Are you a member of the LGBTQIA+ community yourself?
- How many years of experience do you have providing LGBTQIA+ counseling?
Aside from the specific questions related to LGBTQIA+ mental health providers, you should also ask questions related to the type of therapy provided and mental health conditions they treat.
How Does an LGBTQIA+ Friendly Therapist Help?
Having a good LGBTQIA+ friendly and affirming therapist can make a big difference in your life. Some qualities of a good LGBTQA+ mental health provider include:
- Being knowledgeable about the LGBTQIA+ community and the issues people in the community face
- Having experience with affirming therapy
- Being understanding
- Being empathetic
- Being empowering
- Being objective
With these qualities, training, and experience, an LGBTQIA+ friendly therapist can help you work through a variety of issues or struggles such as:
- Coming out to friends and family
- Embracing your sexual identity
- Gender dysphoria
- Low self-esteem
- Relationship troubles
- Trauma
- Suicidal thoughts
- Substance abuse
Additional LGBTQIA+ Mental Health Resources
- LGBTQIA+ National Help Center: This organization offers three hotlines: one for adults, one for youths, and one for seniors 50 and over. There is also an online support chat where you can message a peer support volunteer, as well as weekly moderated youth chat rooms.
- The Trevor Project: This organization primarily focuses on LGBTQIA+ Mental Health in youths. They offer a hotline, online chat, and texting option.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: While this hotline is not specifically for LGBTQIA+ folks, the trained volunteers can help you out if you are struggling with suicidal thoughts. If you are feeling suicidal and afraid of hurting yourself, do not hesitate to reach out to the Lifeline or head to your nearest emergency room.
To sum it all up, if you’re part of the LGBTQIA+ community and struggling with your mental health and wellbeing, LGBTQIA+ friendly therapy can change your life for the better. Affirming therapy can help you feel proud to be LGBTQIA+, and an LGBTQIA+ friendly therapist can help you navigate your life struggles, making you a more confident and mentally resilient person.
It may take a couple of tries to find the LGBTQIA+ friendly therapist who’s best for you, but don’t give up. Individual therapy can be intimidating the first time around, so you can also find a therapist that conducts group therapy, couples therapy, or family therapy sessions. In case you can’t meet with your therapist in person, we also have online therapy services. Once you find your match, it’ll be well worth it.
The post How to Find an LGBTQIA+ Friendly Therapist appeared first on Talkspace.
]]>The post How to Find a Therapist with a Similar Cultural Background appeared first on Talkspace.
]]>How Cultural Differences Can Hinder Therapy
With my own new clients, one of the things I often come across is that they’ve tried therapy before, often with a therapist of a different cultural background than themselves. For many, that experience wasn’t particularly comfortable and they found themselves educating their therapist on what they would consider the fundamental parts of their lived experience.
These experiences can vary, but often include dealing with racism and other microaggressions at work or in their personal lives. While there is some space for the sharing of nuance in therapy, it is not a client’s job to educate a therapist. A therapist must learn what racism, homophobia, transphobia or classism looks like in the world on their own time.
The challenge of differing experiences
Some clients have experienced a therapist making an ignorant or uneducated remark about their own experience as a person of a socially marginalized identity (Black, queer, trans for example). This, as you can imagine, can cause quite a disruption in the therapy process. This kind of invalidation breaks trust between the client and therapist. Understandably, some folks have a hard time investing in therapy again after having negative experiences in the therapeutic space.
In my experience, it’s a journey for underrepresented identities to simply ask for what they feel they need in therapy. As therapists are often perceived as an authority figure, it can be hard to ask for what you need as a client — particularly after having a negative experience with a past provider. This is especially true for people of color, immigrants, women, or those who have expansive gender or sexual identities. Historically, therapy hasn’t exactly invested in the collective success those groups .
Changing the Dynamic in the Therapy Space
In the greater context of society, people from these groups are often told that asking for their basic needs to be met is somehow something “extra. The default of what is offered, while helpful, may not be the best option for all people. When you’re operating from a culturally blind mindset, those requests might seem like some sort of “special” accommodation. I wish it weren’t true, but some therapists and other medical providers view this as a barrier instead of an opportunity for great healing.
As a therapist, create a positive change
One of the things that we can work on as therapists, is allowing clients the space to share their experience and advocate for their own needs. In fact, these are some of the ethics of any major counseling accrediting body. It’s our ethical duty to empower clients to do just this.
As therapists, we have to create a safe holding space for clients to share what they need and respect that. If a client says that they need to work with a trans person of color, as that’s critical to their success in therapy, and we are not a therapist that fits that mode, then we can take that as an opportunity to be more supportive and empower that potential client. We can provide a more appropriate referral to make sure the client gets what they need. Otherwise, we may be doing unintentional harm.
As a client, communicate your preferences
And as a prospective client, it’s great for you to share what your preferences are and what you need out of therapy. It’s critical to your success in therapy. When there is an intake system in place, like Talkspace offers, there’s a great opportunity for clients to be up front with the consultation team about what they need from a therapist. You might have preferences for your therapist being:
- Younger, or older
- Experienced working with Gen Zers
- A certain religion
- A person of color
There’s great opportunity for customization with this system in place.
Other services also make this kind of request easier. Services like Latinx Therapy, Lighthouse, Therapy for Black Girls and the National Queer and Trans Therapist of Color Network offer great options.
Finding the Right Match for You is Critical for Success
One of the greatest markers of success in therapy, and arguably the only one that matters, is the client’s perception of progress and success. That means that if you have a specific need to ensure that you can be comfortable and show up as yourself with your therapist, not only is it OK to ask for that, but it’s essential for your success.
The post How to Find a Therapist with a Similar Cultural Background appeared first on Talkspace.
]]>The post How Do I Find a Therapist Near Me? appeared first on Talkspace.
]]>However, after you’ve plugged the search term into your browser and received your “therapist near me” results, you are likely to be inundated with an overwhelming amount of data and therapist choices. You might be asking yourself which results are useful and which are not. How can you find the perfect therapist if you don’t quite know what you’re looking at?
Seeking therapy should be as stress-free as possible . We’ll point you in the right direction, and you’ll find a great therapist. Most importantly, you’ll have a clearer path forward toward wellness.
Deciphering Your Search Results
After you search “therapist near me,” you will probably find that instead of getting actual names and websites of therapists near you, you are getting websites that list different therapists (like Psychology Today, for example), websites of therapy clinics, articles about therapy, and other therapy services.
The reason for this is that most practicing therapists don’t have their own websites. Or if they do, they don’t rank high enough in internet search results to be easily found. But that doesn’t mean that your “therapist near me” search results won’t be useful. You just have to know which websites to click over to, and how to evaluate the info you’re seeing.
How To Find Online Lists of Therapy Practices Near You
Most of us are looking for a therapist in private practice near our home or work who we can easily make an appointment with. Here’s how you can locate some of these therapy practices online.
- Search Professional Psychological Organizations
One of the best ways to start is to browse the therapist listings provided by professional organizations. Many therapists have a “page” listed on these sites, with lists of their specialties and areas of interest. Organizations like National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), American Psychological Association (APA), and the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies are good places to start. Psychology Today, though not a professional organization per se, usually has a reliable list of nearby therapists to choose from.
- Search Therapist Lists Provided By Your Insurance Company
If your insurance provider covers therapists, you can get a list from them, or access a list online. Your choices might be limited, but it never hurts to call nearby therapists on the lists and ask about their availability. You can also “vet” them beforehand, doing an internet search on the therapist’s name to see if they have a website or a page on a professional organization’s website.
- Online Therapy Sites
If you search for “therapists near me,” you are likely to directed to online therapy sites. Online therapy delivers therapists as near as you can get: directly into your home! Therapy is usually done via online text messaging, video messaging, or live video sessions. Online therapy is rapidly growing in popularity because it fits easily into our busy lives, and has been shown to be as effective as one-to-one therapy.
Online therapy sites like Talkspace help match you with a well-qualified therapist that specializes in the issues that matter to you, and they don’t limit you to therapists within your geographical vicinity. You will be able to view the profiles of several recommended therapists before trying one out. In Talkspace’s case, the vetting is done for you, as they only select certified therapists who’ve gone through a rigorous credentialing, and training process. So, in essence, some of the “searching” is done for you — based on your needs and search criteria, of course. Talkspace also makes it easy to switch therapists if you find your first selection isn’t a perfect fit. Visit Talkspace’s therapist directory to connect with a professional in your area.
Recommendations From Friends And Others
Another great way to find a good therapist is to get a recommendation. This can get a little tricky if you are relying on family or friends for a recommendation. After all, you may not want to share the same therapist with someone close to you, and your loved ones may not have the same mental health needs as you do.
However, if there is someone in your life who you trust to give you advice, asking them about their current or previous therapists is not a bad place to start. That therapist might be able to recommend a colleague, or a local professional organization for you to search.
Additionally, you can look beyond your immediate friend and family circle for recommendations. Ask your primary care provider, a clergyperson, or a trusted member of your community who you may not have quite as close an interpersonal relationship with. If you are looking for a therapist for your child, you can seek advice from your child’s pediatrician, school counselor, or other parents in your community. Talkspace also now offers therapy for teens.
Narrowing Down Your Search/Specialties
Once you have a list of possible nearby therapists to choose from, it’s time to narrow down your search, and find a therapist you can work with — hopefully for the long-haul. If you are doing an internet search for “therapists near me,” you might consider making your search more specific by adding some keywords that more accurately describe the type of therapist you are looking for.
For example, if you are battling anxiety and depression, you can search for “anxiety/depression therapists near me.” If you have a psychological diagnosis already, you can add that keyword into your therapist search. If you are looking for a therapist that works within a certain modality, you can add that search term (“cognitive behavioral therapist,” for example).
You can also take note of any specialties that a therapist lists within their online profile. Many will tell you what their specialties and scope include. This can help you narrow down your search as well.
“Trying Out” Your Therapist
Once you have focused your search, you will likely have a few candidates to “meet,” either in person or online. Of course, you will first need to be sure that these therapists have room in their schedule for you, and that they have appointment times that work for you. You’ll also want to see if they accept your insurance, or offer payment plans that fit your budget.
This might require a phone call to the therapist’s office, which can feel intimidating. But a quick phone call like this is actually a good way to see how you “vibe” with a particular therapist.
In the case of online therapy like Talkspace, the time between deciding to seek therapy and talking to potential therapists is greatly reduced — from upwards of two weeks (or months if the therapist has a waitlist) to a matter of hours. This can be beneficial if you have a busy schedule, and the option to talk via text or video — whichever is most convenient for you— is just a click away.
It can be stressful the first time you touch base with a therapist, but remember most folks who have tried therapy felt nervous the first time. Therapy brings up a lot of emotions, and it is natural to feel especially vulnerable when you are opening yourself up in this way, especially if this is your first time.
Your First Sessions
Remember that the first few sessions with a new therapist are a time for you to “feel things out.” Your gut instinct about a particular therapist can be very powerful. You don’t want to rush to judgment if you don’t immediately hit it off with your therapist (sometimes difficult feelings are a sign that the therapy is working, actually).
At the same time, you also don’t want to stay in a therapy-patient relationship that is not right to you. There is a well matched therapist out there for everyone. If you find that your first few tries are not what you’d hoped they’d, don’t give up. Sometimes it can take tries runs before you find your perfect therapist. But the good news is that most people who enter therapy begin to feel better after as little as three weeks.
The Road Ahead in Therapy
Phew! You’ve finally found a therapist near you or online who you feel comfortable with and who you can see on a regular basis. Congrats! It really was worth taking the time to do a diligent and careful search, wasn’t it?
If you are not there yet, however – or if the therapist that you were working with does not seem like a good match – don’t despair. Finding a therapist near you might sound daunting at first, but there are so many resources to help you. Remember: just taking the time to look is a wonderful gesture of self-care that will pay off in a big way before you know it. People even report feeling better just having made an appointment to see a therapist.
Keep in mind, too, that you have choices. You may find that there are no therapists near you that are quite what you are looking for. Many therapists these days offer telemedicine services like online therapy, so that is something to consider. You can also sign up for an online therapy company like Talkspace that you helps you find the right match and offers more flexible options for checking in with your therapist or scheduling video sessions.
Your mental health and wellness is worth it. In the end, having a regular therapist should not be an added stress. Remember to keep looking until you find a therapist that suits your needs and fits into your life.
The post How Do I Find a Therapist Near Me? appeared first on Talkspace.
]]>The post What Is a Therapist [Psychotherapist]? – The Complete Definition appeared first on Talkspace.
]]>Therapists, or psychotherapists, are licensed mental health professionals who specialize in helping clients develop better cognitive and emotional skills, reduce symptoms of mental illness, and cope with various life challenges to improve their lives. But that’s only the beginning of what it means to be a psychotherapist. To completely understand what a therapist does, it’s important to understand various therapeutic approaches, licensure, and titles.
This article breaks down every part of what therapists are and what they do. Keep reading if you’re interested in working with a therapist, becoming one, or simply learning about the profession.
How Therapists Define What They Are and What They Do
To better understand what a therapist is, we asked the titular question of this article to several therapists in and outside of the Talkspace network. Each answer was a little different, but together they paint a picture of what a therapist is. Here are some of the answers:
“A therapist serves as an authentic, genuine, empathic individual who is unbiased, supportive, and, can provide objective, nonjudgemental guidance, assisting clients with desired changes as well as achieving their maximum self.” – Kate Denihan, Talkspace Therapist
“A psychotherapist is someone who helps others find their strengths and courage to confront and make sense of difficult emotions and experiences so they can learn and thrive in their lives” – Shannon McFarlin, Talkspace Therapist
“A psychotherapist is someone who offers support, positive regard, compassion, guidance, a level of accountability, advocacy at times, a listening ear and sound clinical advice.” – Candice Christiansen, CMHC
“A clinically trained helper who uses an integrative approach to help others heal” – Shannon Battle, LPC
“To me a psychotherapist is an objective sounding board, a perspective shifter, game changer, a truth teller.” – Erika Martinez, Psy.D.
“A psychotherapist is someone who helps people to remember they are worthy.” – Perpetua Neo, Therapist
What Does a Therapist Do?
Therapists primarily work together with clients, whether in-person or via online therapy, to remedy symptoms of their mental health. Some therapists, however, work in a clinical research or consulting setting.
Here is a list of common services therapists can offer clients:
- Listening
- Analyzing present issues
- Analyzing the influence of the past on the present
- Comforting clients
- Helping clients without the kind of a bias a friend or family member might have
- Diagnosing mental health conditions
- Reducing symptoms of mental illness
- Helping clients manage symptoms of mental illness
- Helping clients change maladaptive behaviors and thinking patterns
- Helping clients understand themselves and other people
- Teaching emotional, cognitive and communication skills
- Teaching clients how to effectively resolve emotional, relational and professional conflicts
- Guiding clients through crises such as breakups, abuse, suicidal thoughts, grief, trauma, infidelity, sexual assault and more
- Teaching clients how to improve current relationships and build new ones
- Teaching clients self-help skills such as deep breathing, meditation, thinking exercises and more
- Offering non-directive advice and suggestions (depending on the therapist)
- Referring clients to psychiatrists, mental health facilities or medical professionals if necessary
- Helping clients learn to love and accept themselves
- Reducing the stigma and shame of mental illness and therapy
Is a Therapist the Same as a Counselor, Psychologist, etc?
“Therapist” is an all encompassing term referring to psychotherapists, psychologists, and counselors. In the context of working with a client to improve their mental health and well-being, these terms all carry the same meaning and are usually interchangeable.
Using one over the other is a matter of preference. “Counselor” and “counseling,” for example, are more common than “therapy” and “therapist” in certain parts of the world.
People often use these terms interchangeably with “therapist”:
- Counselor
- Mental Health Counselor
- Psychologist
- Psychotherapist (this term differentiates mental health therapists from physical, occupational, massage or other types of therapists who aren’t in the mental health field)
The differences between some of these terms lie in their connotations aside from working with clients. While “therapist” tends to refer to someone who treats clients, a “psychologist” would typically work in a research setting as well as with clients.
Some mental health professionals call themselves psychologists simply because they prefer the term. Their work isn’t necessarily different than therapists’. Others use the term to emphasize a background in research or their education. Some psychologists don’t spend any time working with clients and focus solely on research.
Psychiatrists can act as therapists, too. They are trained physicians specialized at mental health medicine. They’re the only type of therapists that are certified to prescribe medication. There isn’t evidence that suggests professionals who identify as therapists provide better care than professionals identifying as psychologists or psychiatrists. In most cases, each of these professionals works to address different issues via different methods.
What Is a Therapist’s Salary?
The range of a therapist’s salary varies depending on education level, additional credentials, location, the types of clients they see, and the environment they work in. The lowest point is around $30,000 a year and the highest is upward of $129,000. A therapist with a Ph.D. in New York City, for example, would make a lot more than their peer with only a master’s degree in a small town.
What Kind of Education and Licensing Does a Therapist Need?
All therapists are required to have completed a master’s degree and be licensed by their state boards to legally practice psychotherapy. There are several types of licenses, and each specifies a service the professional is allowed to provide. These licenses are provided by the state and include the following::
- Doctor of Psychology [Psy.D.]
- Licensed Clinical Social Worker [LCSW]
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist [LMFT]
- Licensed Mental Health Counselor [LMHC]
- Licensed Professional Counselor [LPC]
These licenses allow therapists to practice psychotherapy only in the state or states in which they’re licensed. The license does, however, allow them to practice therapy online and work with clients in any foreign country via an online therapy modality.
Some of the social-work licenses raise the issue of the similarities between a therapist and social worker. Both professions involve helping people live better lives, but there are key differences between them.
Therapists have clinical experience and can also serve as social workers. On the other hand, social workers don’t have clinical experience or a therapist license and therefore cannot work as therapists.
Where Do Therapists Work?
With some types of professionals, it’s easy to imagine where they work. Lawyers typically work at law firms, police officers work at a police station and on their beat, and doctors tend to patients in hospitals.
With therapists, it’s harder because they can work at various locations, depending on their line of work and the types of clients they see. Here are some of the most common locations and a description of the kind of work therapists do there:
- Community Center: working with clients of certain underprivileged communities or with groups struggling with issues like addiction
- Hospital: treating clients with severe mental health issues that require hospitalization or providing mental health support to hospital patients with medical issues
- Mental Health Clinic: federally-funded centers and clinics that provide discounted or free mental health care
- Military Facility: helping military personnel deal with occupational or combat-related stress and trauma
- Online: online therapy allows therapists to do their work anywhere and anytime
- Private Practice: treating various clients from around a specific physical location
- Psychiatric Hospital: treating patients with severe mental health conditions that have made them unable to live normal lives
- Schools and Universities: working with students on campus to support their transition to college, academic stress, and help with mental heal conditions
- Workplace: some companies and organizations hire therapists to work with their employees. Research has shown that strong employee mental health increases productivity.
Misconceptions About What a Therapist Is
To fully understand what a therapist is, we need to talk about what a therapist is not. There are many misconceptions about what it means to practice psychotherapy. Here are a few common misconceptions:
Misconception: A Therapist Is Like a Friend You Pay to Listen To You
Thinking a therapist is only a friend for hire discounts the amount of education and training therapists complete so they can improve clients’ mental health. Most therapists have around six years of education. Many have decades of practice working with and helping clients.
Misconception: A Therapist Tells You What To Do
Most therapists will not tell you what to do. They’re not like sports coaches for your life. They don’t sit on the sidelines and shout instructions.
Therapists work with clients to give them the necessary skills to live better lives and make positive decisions to prevent relapse. Working with a therapist is supposed to empower you to cope with your issues yourself, rather than make you dependent on them for support.
Misconception: A Therapist Can Read Minds
Therapists aren’t trying to guess what you’re thinking or get inside your head.
Your therapist will be interested in what you are thinking because he or she is trying to help you. The process of talk therapy requires you to share details about your life and daily struggles in order to make progress and resolve your issues. They only know what you share with them, and that’s also what makes them different from your friends or loved ones. The more you share with your therapist, the stronger the bond you’ll forge and the more progress you will make on the issues you need help with.
The Definition of a Psychotherapist Has Changed Since Freud and Is Continuing to Change
Sigmund Freud was the first to apply scientific study to mental health and developed psychoanalysis and other theories for the treatment of mental health symptoms. But Freud’s stance maintained that therapists and psychiatrists were doctors whose sole role was in treating mental illness, which isn’t necessarily the definition that we’re familiar with today, where therapists can be as much there for support when things are going well as when they aren’t.
Therapy has evolved a lot since Freud, and talk therapy has become more prominent and sustainable than Freud’s theories and practice of psychoanalysis. There’s since been a shift in the profession, which now puts more emphasis on the clients holistic well-being than just on their immediate symptoms. Client-centered therapy approaches, like Carl Rogers’s work, focusing on the human experience and as experts on their own issues, rather than simply on their symptoms. Today most therapists use an integrated approach that treats mental illness, the most common psychotherapeutic approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, humanistic therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
The term “therapist” also varies individually between therapists as every therapist contributes to a constantly expanding and evolving definition of the profession.“Early on it was all about helping people to solve problems,” said therapist Perpetua Neo. “I approached it in a practical sense.”
Over the years Neo’s practice has shifted to also include helping people accept themselves and develop a sense of self-worth. She believes her approach to therapy will continue to evolve as she grows alongside her clients.
As Neo and thousands of other therapists around the world continue to evolve their personal approach to therapy and to expand the range of services available to clients, the term “therapist” will continue to take more meaning. Nonetheless, technological advances are also expanding the definition of what it means to be a therapist, with the advent of online therapy as an effective psychotherapeutic intervention.
For many decades, being a therapist only meant meeting with a client in-person and using verbal communications to address their condition. Today, online therapy allows therapists to communicate with clients anywhere and anytime. Talkspace enables therapists to message their clients, offering various types of therapies via text, video, or audio message, and even to schedule live video sessions.
As technology and the field of psychotherapy continues to evolve, the definition and scope of what a “therapist” does and how will continue to expand. Still, one part of a therapist’s role will always be central: helping clients live better lives
Interested in becoming a therapist with Talkspace? Learn more here.
The post What Is a Therapist [Psychotherapist]? – The Complete Definition appeared first on Talkspace.
]]>The post How to Find a Therapist Online: Steps Before You Commit appeared first on Talkspace.
]]>
If you’re looking for an online therapist to help you manage your mental health, it’s worth taking time, energy, and effort. Yes, it can feel like a daunting task — but when you know how to find a therapist, it can lead to the improved emotional well-being you’ve been searching for.
Read on to learn how to find a virtual therapist.
Determine What You Need First
It’s essential to assess your mental health needs before starting therapy. Figuring out the type of counseling you need will be critical if you hope to get maximum benefits of online therapy.
Know what you want to work on
The first step in finding a therapist online is understanding why you’re seeking therapy in the first place. Are you struggling with emotional health, anxiety, or another psychological problem? Or are other factors at play, such as relationship issues or a recent life transition?
Reflecting on questions like these can be beneficial in selecting an online therapist that best suits your needs.
“It’s common to start therapy at a time in life when you have career or relationship questions or need help with anxiety, depression, healing from trauma, or for many other reasons. Reaching out to speak with a therapist for support and guidance can make a significant difference in your life.”
– Talkspace therapist Jill Daino, LCSW-R, BC-TMH
Have an idea of your ideal length and frequency of sessions
Once you’ve identified why you’re seeking treatment, consider how often and how long you’d like to meet for an online therapy session with a therapist.
Do weekly sessions sound ideal, or do biweekly check-ins make more sense for now?
Deciding on this upfront can help narrow down potential therapists who offer online counseling services that meet your needs.
Using health insurance (or not)
How much money do you have available each month for therapy? Many online providers offer sliding scale fees based on income, so look into those options if you need therapy without insurance.
If you can’t afford therapy, you should be able to get it covered by insurance. Therapists who accept insurance coverage might mean significantly lower costs for treatment, depending on your plan details and provider availability through in-network plans (if applicable).
Finding a therapist online is easier today than ever, especially since so many employers now offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), which provide free counseling services — something else worth exploring if possible.
Cultural or gender preference
Consider whether cultural or gender preference plays a role in your search. For some people, culturally competent therapy is essential for real, significant progress. It’s important for people to feel that their therapist understands the nuances of their culture and how it may impact their mental health. In the same vein, someone might feel more comfortable opening up to a therapist of the same gender.
Consider the different types of psychotherapy
Before settling on a provider, research the various types of therapy offered. Depending on your requirements and objectives for your treatment, your approach can be instrumental in the results you get. Here are some common forms of therapy:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT helps you become aware of inaccurate or negative thinking to view challenging situations more clearly and respond to them more effectively. At Talkspace, our therapists offer online CBT if you’re interested and if it’s recommended for your needs.
- Interpersonal therapy (IPT): Improves depressive symptoms by focusing on interpersonal relationships, communication,and relational patterns.
- Psychodynamic therapy: Focuses on unconscious factors and encourages patients to really understand what and why they’re feeling a certain way.
Preferred mode of communication
Don’t forget about communication preferences: Do you prefer text messaging? Video chat? Phone calls? A combination? Luckily, there is an abundance of therapy options to choose from and at Talkspace we provide all three modalities.
Determining whether virtual video sessions or phone calls work better for your lifestyle and comfort level is essential. Both options are available through many online platforms.
Finding a therapist online who’s open to texting and messaging through a secure app means you’ll have easy, convenient access to care. There are thousands of people who only do messaging therapy, and studies have proven the efficacy of purely text-based therapy — some research finds that after ceasing sessions, online therapy effects last much longer than in-person.
Where to Search for an Online Therapist
Knowing how to find a virtual therapist starts by exploring all potential choices. Then, you can find a qualified professional who offers the virtual therapy services you’re looking for. Where do you find them?
Therapist directories
Many websites provide directories that list therapists by specialty and location. Searching through directories of therapists on the web can help you locate mental health professionals who offer the services you need. Some guides also allow you to filter results based on insurance coverage or language.
Online therapy network
Online therapy networks connect clients with licensed counselors through their websites or apps. Clients can access licensed counselors from their residences with the help of these platforms, which typically offer video chat, messaging, and secure payment options.
Most networks require users to fill out an intake form before they can search for a therapist, so read the terms and conditions carefully before signing up for any service.
Ask friends and family
Your friends and family may be able to recommend therapists they’ve worked with in the past or even suggest ones they know about but haven’t tried themselves yet. Seeking assistance from those close to you can be a great way to find potential therapists with expertise in particular treatment forms. It never hurts to ask around.
Tips for Finding a Good Therapist Online
Finding the right therapist can be daunting. With so many choices and qualifications to consider, narrowing the selection can be challenging. Fortunately, the following tips will ensure you find the best possible therapist for your needs.
Check reviews
It’s important — and smart — to review a therapist’s reviews and online profile. Examining the feedback of other patients can help you make an informed decision on whether they might be a good or bad therapist for you. Social media sites like Facebook and LinkedIn may also provide helpful information.
Look at their experience
Make sure their experience and expertise line up with your needs. Are you looking for someone who specializes in treating anxiety? Do you need someone experienced in helping people work through trauma? Or maybe you just need someone to provide general support during challenging times? Finding an online therapist that specializes in your mental health concern can be incredibly effective.
Check certifications and credentials
Ask about their education, training, and any certifications they may have. This will ensure they’re qualified and experienced enough to provide quality care for your mental health concerns.
Ask how sessions work
Find out how the therapy sessions will work before committing yourself financially or emotionally to a long-term relationship with the therapist.
Think about the cost — and ask about payment options
On average, the cost of therapy is between $75 and $150 per session, but you might find it as low as $20 and as high as $400, depending on the therapist and your insurance coverage. Using an online therapy network, like Talkspace can help you get to a lower price point. When you factor therapy into your budget, think of it as another monthly bill such as electricity or Internet.
Ask about payment options, session lengths, confidentiality policies, availability of emergency services if needed, and any other information related to providing quality service before beginning treatment sessions.
Make sure you’re comfortable
Finally, you must find someone who makes you feel comfortable during sessions so you can open up honestly without fear of judgment or criticism from them regarding your thoughts or feelings.
“It’s important to remember that therapy is collaborative. Finding the right fit is key to feeling comfortable speaking openly about yourself. It can sometimes take a few tries to find the right match — do not give up!”
– Talkspace therapist Jill Daino, LCSW-R, BC-TMH
Connect with an Online Therapist Through Talkspace
Now that you know how to find an online therapist, make the search easier with Talkspace. Our online therapy platform connects you with licensed therapists that take insurance. We offer a variety of options for anyone seeking mental health support, from individual therapy to couples counseling. Talkspace allows users to conveniently access affordable professional assistance right from their own home, without traveling or physically waiting in a doctor’s waiting room.
Sources:
- Wagner B, Horn AB, Maercker A. Internet-based versus face-to-face cognitive-behavioral intervention for depression: A randomized controlled non-inferiority trial. Journal of Affective Disorders. 2014;152-154:113-121. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2013.06.032. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0165032713005120. Accessed March 11, 2023.
The post How to Find a Therapist Online: Steps Before You Commit appeared first on Talkspace.
]]>