Connecting with a Therapist
The process of choosing a therapist can feel so overwhelming! You may be wondering: Where do I start? How do I know if a therapist is a good fit? What questions should I ask?
My hope is that this guidance might help you find your person quicker and more intentionally.
Before you start your search
• Decide if you'll use insurance or pay out of pocket. (You can call the number on the back of your insurance card to ask about your deductible and out-of-pocket costs, or your therapist may be able to verify your benefits for you.)
• Consider your monthly budget and how often you'd like to attend therapy.
• Choose between in-person or virtual therapy. (With virtual therapy, you can see any therapist licensed in your state, even if they don’t live there.)
• Think about therapist qualities that matter to you, such as gender, age, cultural background, or life experience.
• Identify 2-3 goals or current stressors you'd like to work on.
These directories allow you to search for therapists in your area and filter by insurance, specialties, therapy approaches, availability, and more.
• Psychology Today
• Mental Health Match
• TherapyDen
• Inclusive Therapists
• Therapy for Black Girls
• Open Path Collective (offers sliding-scale therapy for individuals experiencing financial hardship, who are uninsured, or who cannot afford to use their insurance)
During a consultation
Many therapists offer a free 15 minute consultation. Here are some helpful questions that you can ask:
• Do you have experience with concerns like mine?
• What is your approach to therapy?
• What can I expect in the first session?
• How often do you recommend meeting?
• Do you offer virtual, in-person, or both?
• How will I know when therapy is done?
The connection you have with your therapist is one of the biggest predictors of successful therapy. If the first therapist isn't the right fit, don't give up! Finding someone you feel comfortable with is worth the time, and the right therapeutic relationship can make all the difference.
If you’re ready to start your therapy journey, click here to fill out my New Client Inquiry form.
