How to Pick a Therapist

You know you want to start therapy but understanding what your options are can be a challenge.

Often when we have decided that we need to seek help from a therapist, we are experiencing more distress than we can tolerate. The next step of finding a therapist can feel daunting and difficult at a time when we need a little more ease in our lives. There is a lot to consider when finding a therapist that is the right fit for you, so hopefully this guide will help you understand your options.

1. What Is a Therapist?

“Therapist” is a broad term that encompasses people who work in mental health. There are many types of therapists and they usually have a master’s or doctoral degree, such as social workers, psychologists, and clinical mental health counselors. There are other people who are unlicensed but may provide specific advice such as consultants, counselors, life coaches, or spiritual teachers. If you are seeking therapy, it is best to see a licensed provider. 

1. Who Can Provide Therapy?

1. Psychologists (PhD, PsyD)

2. Social Workers (LCSW)

3. Professional Counselors (LPC)

4. Mental Health Counselors (LMHC)

5. Licensed or Certified Addiction Counselors

6. Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT)

7. Psychiatrists (MD) - typically focus on medication and not therapy

8. Nurse Practitioners (NP) - typically focus on medication and not therapy

1. What is Therapy?

Also called “psychotherapy” - this is a treatment that helps people alleviate emotional distress or other mental health issues. There are many types of therapeutic models that therapists use to help their clients such as talk therapy, group therapy, art therapy, and many more. Your therapist should be able to tailor their therapeutic approach to your specific needs. 

1. Logistical Considerations

When seeking a therapist, you will need to consider the cost, your insurance coverage, and how easy it is to make appointments. If you have depression or ADHD, scheduling appointments can be particularly difficult, so it is important that the therapist or the office makes this piece as easy as possible for you.

1. Finding the Right “Fit”

The most important aspect to finding the right therapist for you is making sure it is a good fit. You will know if it is a good fit if your therapist is present and responsive to your needs. Someone who can build a connection with you and makes you feel comfortable to express whatever concerns or feelings you may be having. A therapist’s job is to guide you towards your own goals. Therapists, like everyone, are human beings. Sometimes we find someone who we really enjoy working with, and sometimes we need to find someone else. Typically a therapist will be able to offer you a free consultation before deciding to work together where you can get a feel for their style and how easy they are to work with. Participating in therapy may be uncomfortable at times, so it is important that your therapist is someone who you trust to be compassionate and supportive. You might need to “shop around” until you find the right therapist for you.