How to Find the Right Therapist for You.

Therapy holds the potential to be an incredibly powerful and transformative journey, capable of reshaping your perspective, enhancing your relationships, and fostering a deeper connection with yourself. More than any special technique, training, or theoretical orientation, the key to unlocking this potential lies in the relationship you build with your therapist – it's the vital thread that weaves the tapestry of successful treatment.

A woman in a yellow shirt, siting outside in a field enjoying the sunlight.

Beyond any specific intervention, training, or therapeutic approach, the foundation of trust and warmth between you and your therapist becomes the ultimate catalyst for healing.

 As you embark on your healing journey, the vast array of platforms, therapist types, and locations may seem overwhelming. In this post, we will delve into some of the often overlooked critical factors you should consider while navigating your search for the right therapist.

Tips for finding the right therapist for you:

Clarify Your Goals

Imagine your ideal day where everything seems to go just right. What does it look like? Who do you see? What time do you wake up and go to bed? What do you have for breakfast? How do you approach that meeting you were nervous about? How is that different from your days recently?

Take a moment to pause and reflect on what kind of help you are seeking. Consider the specific challenges you are facing, without feeling the need to have all the answers or solutions—simply acknowledging your desire for support is a powerful step towards healing.

If you have no idea where you need to start, that’s okay. Therapists are trained to be generalists too, so we can help you identify areas to work on.

Consider Specific Interventions

Sometimes, individuals seek therapy with a particular approach or modality in mind, like EMDR. If you prefer a specific therapeutic technique, search for therapists who possess the expertise and specialized training in that area. There are some databases that list therapists certified in their modalities, such as EMDRIA and The Gottman Institute. Take note that therapists don’t necessarily have to be certified in a specific modality to offer it, so these lists are not exhaustive.

There are dozens of theoretical orientations therapists work from; seeing a counselor who practices from a psychoanalytical framework (based on Freud’s work and focused on your unconscious) is going to feel much different from seeing a counselor who uses CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy—restructuring your thoughts). This section in Psychology Today is dedicated to explaining many of the different orientations popular today.

Weigh the Pros and Cons of Practice Structures

It may be helpful to consider the different types of job settings therapists are affiliated with. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks.

Group Practices:

At a group practice, therapists often operate on a "split" payment system, where they keep around 50-60% of your payment, while the practice retains the rest. This arrangement covers various overhead costs such as office space, electronic medical records, and marketing.

One significant benefit of group practices is that therapists can focus solely on providing therapy, without being burdened by administrative concerns that arise in individually owned private practices. However, be cautious as some group practices may exploit their therapists by taking a substantial portion of their fees while offering little in return. They might also pressure therapists to see an excessive number of clients to maximize profit, leading to burnout, exhaustion, and lower quality care for you.

Individual Practices:

On the other hand, individual private practices offer therapists the freedom to operate as the owner of their company. They don't need to split their fees with others and can establish their rules regarding caseload management, leading to lower rates of burnout and exhaustion for the therapist.

However, working in an individual private practice can sometimes feel isolating, as therapists may not have coworkers to interact with during breaks and might seek consultation less frequently than those in group practices.

While I generally recommend seeking an individual private practice therapist,  there's no hard-and-fast rule. The main priority is finding a therapist with whom you feel a genuine connection and can form a strong therapeutic alliance.

Consider Practical Aspects

Reflect on your specific needs and preferences when it comes to scheduling and location. Be honest with yourself—it’s easy to be motivated now, but think about what you’ll need when you’re exhausted after a long day and you have an appointment. What will help get you there?

Location:

Firstly, consider the location of the therapist's office. Are you more likely to attend appointments consistently if the therapist's office is conveniently located, or are you willing to travel a bit for the right fit? Finding a therapist within a reasonable distance can make it easier to prioritize your mental health and attend sessions regularly.

Availability:

Additionally, think about the flexibility of the therapist's availability. Do you prefer a therapist who offers virtual sessions for those days when leaving the house feels challenging or inconvenient? In today's digital age, many therapists offer telehealth alongside in-person appointments, providing you with more options and convenience.

Navigating the process of finding a therapist can indeed feel overwhelming, but these starting points can help get your feet off the ground. Therapy is a beautiful collaboration, and finding the right practitioner sets the stage for empowering change.

If you're eager to begin, I extend a warm invitation to explore the services I offer at Rising Sun Counseling. Here, you'll find a compassionate and evidence-based approach to therapy, tailored specifically to your unique needs.