Getting help for mental health issues is something that many people overlook. One of the major reasons is the process of finding a therapist. You will need to review profiles and send emails to see who responds. Then you’ll be in the therapist’s office for an hour to find out if they are a good fit for you and whether therapy would work for you. Let’s understand how to find a therapist the right fit for you.
Why Fit Matters So Much
Psychotherapy research shows that a strong therapist-client relationship (therapeutic alliance) is consistently one of the most important factors in successful therapy outcomes, regardless of the type of treatment. A skilled clinician using evidence-based methods may still not be able to deliver results if you are not comfortable being honest and open.
A great match is a therapist with whom you feel safe to express what’s on your mind and a therapist who is willing to work with you. You should come back from the session feeling as if your therapist gets you, even when you have to face a challenging situation!
Know What You Want Help With
Before searching for a therapist, you need to write down 2-3 issues that bring you here for help. Perhaps you have panic attacks on the subway, or you repeat the same fights with your partner. Specific issues will help you find the right therapist and understand whether this therapist is the right fit.
Understand the Credentials
There are different mental health professions with different training, backgrounds, and ways of dealing with mental disorders.
Licensed clinical social workers and licensed mental health counselors offer counseling, while psychologists have doctoral degrees and can also conduct formal assessments. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who diagnose and prescribe medication and can also provide therapy or work with a therapist to support an individual.
For example, if your condition requires medication, you may want to consider working with a psychiatrist for medication and a therapist for psychotherapy, as needed. Reputable practices such as GABA Telepsychiatry will provide medication treatment and collaborate with therapists or other mental health professionals to provide coordinated care and lower costs for the patient.
Use the Consultation Call
Some psychotherapists are open to scheduling an introductory phone call before the formal first appointment. The conversation is primarily meant to let the client know more about the therapy and for the client to ask questions. It’s perfectly fine to leave the call without choosing a provider.
The National Institute of Mental Health recommends thinking through your questions in advance because this time is limited. A few questions might include the following:
- What type of therapy do you use for the problem I mentioned?
- How much experience do you have with people like me?
- How can I find out that my therapy is effective?
- What are your charges, and does your price cover my health insurance?
When answering these questions, pay attention to how your answers make you feel. You need someone who is willing to discuss these questions and ask thoughtful questions.
Give It a Few Sessions
Mostly, the first meeting is a chance to explain your background, present problems, and what you would like to achieve in therapy. For this reason, it may not be a good idea to expect what therapy sessions usually involve.
A therapist may be the right fit if you feel comfortable speaking about your life experiences and thoughts. Try at least three or four sessions to see what you get out of the therapy.
If you still feel judged or unheard after that, it is fine to say so. A good therapist will welcome the feedback and may refer you to a colleague who fits better.
Big cities like New York are blessed with a lot of therapists, psychiatrists, and other clinical practices. However, many options may be a burden as well, because of the difficulty in making a good choice.
Group practices can help because an intake coordinator matches you with a clinician based on your goals. If you reach out to a practice such as Citron Hennessey Therapy, ask how the matching process works and whether you can switch clinicians within the practice if the first match doesn’t click.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it rude to switch therapists?
No. Therapists expect some clients to move on, and switching is a normal part of finding the right care.
Does online therapy work as well as in person?
For many common concerns, video sessions can work well. Some people prefer the room for deeper trauma work. Try the format that makes it easiest for you to show up every week.
Book Your First Consultation This Week
Pick a few names and send each a short email with your main concern. If you are searching for a therapist in New York, start with practices that list their clinicians’ specialties openly so you can narrow the field before you pick up the phone.
