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How to find the right therapist for you

When you need help with a mental health issue, here’s who—and what—to look for.

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You can’t shake the blues. You’re worried about everything. You might even be drinking to excess or abusing prescription or illegal drugs.

It’s time to seek help. Start by making an appointment with a healthcare provider (HCP), advises the National Institute of Mental Health. Your HCP can assess your symptoms and may run tests or do a physical exam to check for causes.Show More

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NARROW DOWN WHAT KIND OF THERAPIST YOU NEED

There are many different types of therapists. They may treat different conditions and require different licenses and certifications. Here are some of the most popular, and how they can help you:

  • Psychologists are mental health professionals who apply scientifically proven strategies to help people
  • Show More
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START FEELING OUT POSSIBILITIES

Seek referrals from friends, physicians, religious leaders or use online therapist locators, advises Ryan Howes, PhD, a practicing psychologist in Pasadena, California.

“Make a list of three to five therapists who meet your basic needs," says Howes. “Call to make sure they’re affordable or takeShow More

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GIVE YOURSELF TIME TO SEARCH

Finding the right fit can take time—up to a month or more, so be patient.

“I think you get the best sense of a therapist by asking one question: ‘My issues include this and this. How would you work with me on these?’” suggests Howes.

Take note of how you feel while you’re talking with the therapist.Show More

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LOOK FOR SOMEONE YOU JIBE WITH

The best therapist for you may specialize in your particular problem, whether it’s anxiety, depression, chronic pain, relationship issues, sexual issues or substance abuse problems.

In therapy, you should feel comfortable, free enough to be open and honest, and that the therapist is listening toShow More

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DISCUSS THE DETAILS

Typically, during the first appointments, you’ll discuss the business and logistical parts of treatment, including payment, confidentiality and the cancellation policy, says Howes. You’ll also discuss the goals for treatment and how you’ll both work toward achieving them, he adds.

Then, expect toShow More

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KNOW WHEN YOU’VE FOUND THE RIGHT FIT

Those who are uncomfortable talking to new people may feel the same way when they meet with a therapist.

If accepting help is tough for you, it may also be tough during therapy, says Howes. The point isn’t that therapists cut through these obstacles from the first meeting, but that you’re awareShow More

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WATCH FOR RED FLAGS

If you feel that the therapist is judgmental, critical, manipulative or is a poor listener, seek a different therapist, says Howes. Other cues that it may be time to move on include:

  • You feel you’re boring your therapist.
  • Your therapist talks about their life too much or in ways that aren’t
  • Show More
Slideshow sources open slideshow sources

National Institute of Mental Health. “Depression Basics.” 2020. Accessed September 1, 2020.
American Psychological Association. “How to choose a psychologist.” Updated October 17, 2019. Accessed September 1, 2020.
American Psychiatric Association. “What Is Psychiatry?” 2020. Accessed September 1, 2020.
American Psychiatric Nurses Association. “Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurses.” 2020. Accessed September 1, 2020.
HumanServicesEdu.org. “LCSW vs. Psychologist.” 2020. Accessed September 1, 2020.
National Alliance on Mental Illness. “Types of Mental Health Professionals.” Updated April 2020. Accessed September 1, 2020.
Association for Clinical Pastoral Education. “Frequently Asked Questions.” 2020. Accessed September 1, 2020.
American Psychiatric Association. “Idaho Becomes Fifth State to Allow Psychologists to Prescribe Medications.” April 5, 2017.
American Psychological Association School of Counseling Psychology. “List of APA-Accredited Counseling Psychology PhD and PsyD Programs.” Updated January 29, 2017. Accessed September 8, 2020.
American Psychiatric Association. “Practice Guidance for COVID-19.” Updated August 26, 2020. Accessed September 8, 2020.
American Psychological Association. “APA Dictionary of Psychology: Therapeutic Alliance.” 2020. Accessed September 8, 2020.

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