Mental health is something everyone deals with on a daily basis. Life is nuanced and complex, and we’re often faced with situations and scenarios that significantly impact our mental health. When that happens, it’s important to seek out resources that can help in both the short and long term.
On the road toward better mental health, finding the right therapist is a step in the right direction — but how do you know which psychologist, therapist, or psychotherapist is right for you? Understanding the qualities to look for and what questions to ask can save you time and energy and help you put that energy toward your inner work.
Let’s explore what it means to find a therapist that fits your mental health needs.
Understanding Individual Needs
Patients seek out therapy for a variety of reasons. Some look to mental health professionals to help manage concerns ranging from anxiety to depression, while others need help managing life transitions or specific behavioral challenges.
Before you can begin looking for a therapist, you should have a clear enough idea of what you’re looking to address. This helps ensure you’re talking to the right specialists and can get the most out of your sessions.
What to Consider
When it comes to searching for a therapist online, you’ll likely come across several in your local area alone. The key to narrowing down your search is to look at these three factors.
Experience & Accreditation
During your online search, you might find clinicians who offer supportive counseling but aren’t necessarily licensed as registered psychologists, registered psychotherapists, or registered social workers. This is where accreditation is important. It’s recommended that anyone seeking therapy should look for industry professionals who have been accredited by a college and even hold a doctoral or masters degree.
Industry experience is also important to consider, but this can also depend on the type of counseling you’re looking for. Consider whether working with someone who has been in the field for many years is important to you or if you think you could benefit from the insight of a newly licensed professional.
Specialization
Therapists often specialize in areas of mental health, including trauma, anxiety, and relationship issues. While you may find overlapping themes in your sessions, it’s important to begin your journey by looking for a therapist who can address your primary concern. Healthcare groups like CASE Psychology are known for providing specialized care and targeted behavioral approaches.
Approach
There are several types of therapeutic approaches that can be applied to individuals seeking counseling — from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to psychodynamic therapy. Each approach is tailored to yield specific results. Researching and speaking with different therapists about these approaches can help you determine which is right for you.
Collaborative Efforts
Therapy is considered a two-way street, which means it’s equally as important for the patient to contribute to sessions as their therapist. Being willing to be open, honest, and vulnerable with your therapist means they can access the appropriate resources to help you in your mental health journey.
When therapy is tailored to an individual’s needs, it opens the doors for more positive outcomes.