3 Tips For Finding a Great Therapist
Deciding to begin the intentional healing journey of therapy is a big deal. It can be intimidating and exciting. And finding a therapist you like is maybe one of the most important aspects of this decision. Did you know that research indicates the therapeutic relationship is responsible for 30% of clinical outcomes? This means that the relationship you have with your therapist is responsible for one third of your experience in therapy. That is a lot! The relationship a client has with their therapist is consistently one of the most significant aspects of therapy. The environment, modalities used, client readiness and engagement are all important, but rapport with your therapist is most important.
So, how do you find a good therapist for you?
1. Get clear on what you would like.
Why are you seeking additional support through therapy right now? Do you just want a space to explore and be validated? Do you want to be challenged and given work to do outside of session? Are you looking for specific approaches or focus-- EMDR, CBT, ACT, OCD, DBT, disordered eating, post-partum, trauma-focused, etc.? Do you want family therapy? Couples therapy? Are you looking for weekly sessions, bi-monthly, monthly, twice a week? Do you want to meet in the mornings, afternoons or evenings? Do you want a weekday spot or a weekend? Do you want to meet in-person or telehealth? Do you want support outside of session via potential phone calls, texts or emails? These are all good questions to consider and maybe have answers to as you search for your therapist. Of course, you might not know the answers to all of these questions and that is completely fine. But having a general idea of what works for you and what you are looking for will help you narrow down the kind of therapist you want/need.
2. Don’t be shy — ask your therapist some questions about them and how they practice therapy.
This gives you the opportunity to get a brief overview of their services to make an informed decision if you feel this will be a good fit. As a therapist, I share with my clients my background, the different demographics I’ve worked with, the trainings I have, how I approach therapy and what a typical therapy session with me looks like. I do a lot of somatic work (mind-body bridging) in my therapy and it is important for me to share this because some people love that and some people really don’t. I let people know and then they can make the decision that works for them. If your therapist isn’t offering up this information initially, it is totally your right as the client to ask them.
3. Don’t give up! Finding the right therapist for you might take some time trying different therapists.
This can be frustrating and stressful as it takes time and money to try different therapists and agencies, but it is worth it. I tell my clients it’s kind of like finding the perfect pair of jeans-- it might take a lot of shopping around, but eventually you’ll find your denim home. They exist for everyone. You can and will find a therapist you connect with and has the professional background you feel is appropriate for your needs. It might take some time and some “therapist shopping,” but you will get there.
You can learn more about the highly skilled therapists at The Healing Group by visiting our Team page. If you still aren’t sure who the right fit for you might be, feel free to call or text our Client Care Coordinators with your questions or specific concerns. They can help guide you to a therapist who has the skills and personality you are looking for. You can reach our Client Care Coordinators at 801-305-3171. We look forward to speaking with you soon!